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A Guide to Choosing Your School

There are many aspects to what makes a school ‘good'. Although excellent examination results are doubtlessly important: how happy your child would be, the social mix of pupils, the opportunity for extra‐curricular enrichment and countless practical considerations are just as significant. Many parents, while wanting their children to be well‐grounded in the basics, also place huge emphasis on sport and other activities like music, drama and art. You may wish to consider whether you want your child to be educated in the state or independent sectors, in a co‐educational or single sex environment. There are many factors that people do not ask about until it is potentially too late. Although Careers advice may not seem relevant at 7, once pupils reach secondary school this may seem more salient. Although you may hope your child does not need to know about pastoral care or bullying policies they are always worth considering. Read Inspection Reports, find out about class sizes and ask the Head about any future facilities in which they are investing. Make sure the staff are both interested and interesting and fully qualified. Is there a relevant Specific Learning Needs structure for pupils with Learning Disabilities or Difficulties or for those who are particularly gifted? Are you happy with the ethos and environment? Do not be afraid to ask the difficult questions...

Before you begin

Key Points for Key Stages

Your Needs

Ethos and Image

Academic Standards

Pastoral Care

Teaching Staff

Enrichment and Extra‐curricular Activities

Size of Classes and Facilities

Individual Requirements

Extended Hours Service

Parental Involvement

Single Sex: Pros and Cons

Independent or State

Gain an Objective Insight

Scholarships and Bursaries

Alumni, higher education and career choices

Things to think about while visiting