Essential Questions to Ask at School Open Evenings

Making the Most of Your Visit

Attending school open evenings is a vital step in ensuring your child is placed in an environment where they can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. These events give you the chance to meet staff, explore the facilities, and get a feel for the school’s culture. Asking the right questions can help you identify whether the school aligns with your expectations and your child’s needs.

1.      Stretching High Achievers: How do you stretch the most able students?

Asking this ensures the school has specific strategies to challenge and support academically gifted pupils. Examples might include offering accelerated learning programmes, additional resources, or opportunities such as competitions that allow high achievers to excel.

2.      Support for Struggling Students: How do you support children if they find a particular subject difficult?

This is crucial to understanding the school’s intervention strategies, such as providing extra tutoring, small-group sessions, or resources tailored to individual needs.

3.      Class Grouping: Do you place children in sets in Year 7 or are they in mixed-ability classes?

Find out how students are grouped, as this can influence their learning experience. Grouping by ability may allow focused teaching, while mixed classes can encourage collaboration among diverse learners.

 

4.      GCSE Options: What option subjects do you offer for GCSE?

Knowing the breadth of subjects ensures your child can pursue their interests, whether that’s in traditional subjects like History or more niche options like Computer Science or Creative Media.

5.      Homework and Feedback: What is your homework and marking policy? How much homework will my child be given? How often will my child receive feedback?

Clarify the school’s academic expectations. Frequent and constructive feedback on homework can significantly improve learning outcomes.

 

6.      Reporting Structure: What is your reporting structure? How many reports will I receive a year?  

Understanding how and when you’ll be updated on your child’s progress helps you stay engaged and monitor their development effectively.

7.      Engagement with Teachers: When are the parent evenings? Can I speak to the teacher outside of these events?

It’s important to know how accessible teachers are if you need to discuss your child’s progress or any concerns outside the structured school calendar.

 

8.      Preparing for the Future: How do you prepare children for life after school? Do you provide enrichment activities to build confidence, resilience, etc?

A good school fosters skills like problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork through activities like career counselling, mock interviews, or public speaking workshops.

9.      School Trips: What school trips do you offer?

School trips are valuable for broadening horizons and bringing lessons to life. Ask if trips include cultural, educational, or adventure-based activities, and how often they occur.

10. Pastoral Care: Who can my child go to if they have a problem in school?

A strong pastoral care system ensures your child feels supported. Enquire about dedicated staff, counsellors, or peer mentoring programmes.

11. Behaviour Policy: What is your behaviour policy?

A well-defined behaviour policy reflects the school’s approach to discipline and fostering a respectful learning environment. Ask about how the school handles issues and encourages positive behaviour.

 

12. Rewards for Achievement: Do children receive rewards for good behaviour, high attendance, etc?

Reward systems, such as certificates, house points, or special privileges, can encourage effort, attendance, and good conduct.

13. Library Resources: Does your library hold a wide range of books?

A well-resourced library promotes literacy and learning. Ask if the library also provides access to digital resources or reading clubs.

 

14. Sports Activities: What sports do you offer in PE lessons?

Sports are integral to physical and mental well-being. Find out if the school offers a variety of individual and team sports to suit different interests and abilities.

15. Extracurricular Opportunities: What is your extracurricular timetable like?

Extracurricular activities enhance the school experience by providing opportunities to develop new skills, meet friends, and pursue hobbies. Check if the timetable includes clubs such as music, drama, coding, or sports.

Summary

In summary, attending a school open evening and asking these detailed questions will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of what the school can offer your child. It provides an opportunity to explore how the school supports academic achievement, personal development, and well-being, ensuring you make an informed choice for your child’s future.