Get the Most Out of Your School Open Day Visit
Visiting a school open day is an important part of choosing the right learning environment for your child. Whether you’re exploring state-funded schools, private (independent) institutions, or international schools in the UK, arriving prepared helps you ask the right questions, observe key details, and make confident comparisons.
To help you feel informed and organised, we’ve created easy-to-follow checklists for each stage of the journey—before, during, and after your school open day visit. These checklists will guide you through what to research ahead of time, what to look for and ask while on-site, and how to reflect and follow up afterwards. They’re designed to help you capture the most important insights and make a well-rounded decision.
Research the School
- Read the school's website, prospectus, and latest inspection reports (Ofsted for state schools, ISI for independent schools).
- Check exam results and university destinations of previous students
- Understand the school’s curriculum (e.g., National Curriculum, GCSEs & A-Levels, IB, Montessori, or other alternative approaches).
- Look at extracurricular activities, pastoral care, and SEN provisions if relevant to your child.
- Join parent forums or Facebook groups to see reviews from other parents.
Prepare Questions to Ask
- Academics & Curriculum: What subjects and qualifications are offered? Are there special programs for gifted students or those needing additional support?
- Pastoral Care & Well-being: How does the school handle bullying, mental health, and emotional support?
- Extracurricular Activities: What clubs, sports, music, or arts programs are available?
- School Policies & Culture: What are the school’s values? How do they promote discipline and inclusion?
- Admissions Process: What are the key dates, entrance exams, and selection criteria for admission?
- Tuition & Financial Aid (for private schools): What are the school fees? Are scholarships or bursaries available?
Plan Logistics
- Confirm the date and time of the open day and check if registration is required.
- Check the school's location, parking options, and transport links.
- Arrange childcare for younger siblings if necessary.
- Dress comfortably but appropriately (smart-casual attire is recommended).
- Bring a notebook, pen, and phone for taking notes and photos.
On Arrival
- Collect an agenda or map of the school to navigate the event efficiently.
- Sign in at reception and introduce yourself to the admissions team.
- Note key staff members you speak to, including the headteacher, teachers, or student ambassadors.
Tour the Facilities
- Visit classrooms and check for modern equipment, learning resources, and class sizes.
- Explore libraries, science labs, IT suites, and any specialist subject areas.
- Observe the cleanliness, maintenance, and overall atmosphere of the school.
- Check the quality of sports facilities, art studios, music rooms, and theatre spaces.
- Visit the cafeteria and ask about meal options, dietary accommodations, and lunchtime structure.
Engage with Teachers & Students
- Speak to teachers about their teaching philosophy and student engagement.
- Ask students about their experiences—do they enjoy the school? What do they like best?
- Attend presentations or talks given by the headteacher or leadership team.
- Observe interactions between staff and students to assess school culture.
Assess the Learning Environment
- Is the school welcoming and inclusive?
- Are students engaged and well-behaved in classrooms?
- Does the school support different learning styles and abilities?
- What is the homework policy and approach to assessments?
Admissions & Next Steps
- Collect application forms, prospectuses, and any relevant materials.
- Ask about assessment days, interviews, or entrance exams if required.
- Get clarity on key dates for applications, scholarships, and acceptance deadlines.
- Find out about taster days or trial classes for prospective students.
Review Your Notes
- What were your first impressions of the school?
- Did the school align with your child’s personality and learning style?
- Were your key concerns addressed?
- How does this school compare with others you’ve visited?
Follow Up with the School
- Email or call with any additional questions.
- Check if there are further open days or private tours available.
- Discuss the visit with your child to gauge their feelings and opinions.
Get the Most Out of Your School Open Day Visit
A school open day provides valuable insights into the school’s ethos, teaching quality, and overall environment. By following this checklist, you can confidently assess whether a school is the right fit for your child. For more expert guidance on school open days, admissions, and private education in the UK, explore our website for in-depth resources.