What to look for when you visit (some key questions)
It is a good idea to do your research prior to your visit. Look at their websites for exam results, policies etc. Ask friends and neighbours with children of a similar age for their views on schools.
Some questions you may want to consider:
Do the staff and pupils make you feel welcome - are they polite and friendly?
Who shows you around? Do they show you everything you wish to see?
Is there a 6th form and if so, what % of pupils stay on?
What does the school consider to be its area of excellence?
What is the entrance procedure and is there a minimum academic standard?
Does the school publish exam results at GCSE and A level? (many do on their websites)
Does the school teach the International Baccalaureate (IB)?
What are the schools sporting facilities? How many teams do they run in each age group?
What emphasis is there in the curriculum for Music, Art and Drama ?
What is the provision for Design Technology and Information Technology?
Who is responsible for pupils' welfare - what are the policies for bullying, IT use, drugs etc?
Most important of all... Does it FEEL right? Can you see your child there?
There is much talk about league tables these days. Whilst we would agree that these statistics provide some information, they do not by any means tell the full story. Many schools have and accept a wide range of abilities and this will certainly affect their position in the league tables, particularly at GCSE. Many schools expect high GCSE grades for continuation to A Level and import students to raise their position in the A Level tables. Look to the all round personality of the pupils, not just the position in the league tables.
Also consider carefully the pupils you see at the top of the school. Your child will change a great deal once they enter secondary school. Do the pupils you see reflect the values you share for your child ?
