Ask Specific Questions: Making the Most of Primary School Open Events

If you're in the process of applying for primary schools (like I am 🙋‍♀️), you’re probably visiting lots of local schools. These visits are such a great way to get a ‘feel’ for the school – often, that feeling reflects how well the school’s approach aligns with your own educational values. 💡  

Of course, schools want to show you their best bits during these events. 🏫✨ It’s a bit like having friends over for dinner  – you probably wouldn’t just pull a random microwave meal from the freezer 🍽️ Schools will highlight what they’re most proud of and that’s perfectly normal.  

But here’s the secret: asking the right questions can give you a clearer picture of what the school is really like day-to-day. 👀  

As a teacher and school leader, I’ve noticed many parents focus on ‘policies’ – What’s the behaviour policy? SEN policy? Attendance policy? 📜  

While these are important (and often on the school website 💻), what you REALLY want to know is how those policies translate into action on a typical day.  

Here are some specific questions you could ask to uncover the day-to-day reality:  

➡️ What happens if I have a family emergency during term time and my child will miss three days of school?  

➡️ What happens if a child throws a pen across the classroom? ✏️  

➡️ What happens if a child falls over during lunchtime and cuts their knee? 🤕  

➡️ What happens if a child is struggling to improve their reading skills? 📚  

➡️ What happens if a child is upset because of something another child said? 😢  

➡️ What happens if a child doesn’t eat the lunch provided? 🍴  

These questions can give you real insight into how the school operates – beyond just policies.  

🎥 Want more tips? 

I’ve made a 10-minute video with examples of what to consider and ask during school open events. You can also download my free ‘School Visits Guide Booklet’.