As many UK independent schools continue to offer virtual open days alongside in-person visits, families from across the UK — and around the world — can explore schools without the need to travel. These online events provide an excellent introduction to the school’s values, academic approach, and community.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare for a virtual open day, what to expect on the day, and how to make the most of the experience — all from the comfort of your home.
Why Attend a Virtual Open Day?
Whether you’re based overseas, unable to travel, or looking to narrow down your shortlist, a virtual open day offers several benefits:
- Convenient access to schools across the UK
- Live interaction with staff, teachers, and sometimes students
- Recorded sessions available for replay
A chance to get a first impression before scheduling an in-person visit or interview.
Table of Contents
1. What to Expect from a Virtual Open Day
While formats vary by school, most virtual open days include:
- A welcome talk from the Head or Principal
- Presentations on academic life, extracurricular activities, and pastoral care
- A virtual tour of facilities (live or pre-recorded)
- Live Q&A sessions with staff or current pupils
- Information on admissions, scholarships, and boarding (if applicable)
Some events are entirely live, while others offer a mix of live and on-demand content.
Tip: If you register for a live event but can’t attend, ask whether a recording will be sent afterwards.
2. Platforms and Tools You Might Use
Most schools use familiar platforms for virtual events, such as:
- Zoom – The most common for interactive webinars or breakout rooms
- Google Meet – Often used for smaller Q&A sessions
- Microsoft Teams – Occasionally used for presentations or one-to-one chats
- Custom platforms – Some schools offer an all-in-one event portal or virtual campus
What you’ll need:
- A stable internet connection
- A computer, tablet or phone with camera and microphone (especially for live Q&As)
- Headphones (optional, but helpful for sound quality)
- A quiet, distraction-free environment
3. How to Prepare for a Virtual Open Day
To make the most of your virtual visit, prepare just as you would for an in-person event.
Before the day:
- Register early and check for email confirmations with event links or login details
- Download the platform in advance (Zoom, Teams, etc.)
- Review the agenda or programme — know when to log in and what sessions interest you most
- Research the school’s website so you’re familiar with basic information
Prepare questions to ask, such as:
- What makes your school unique compared to others?
- How do you support new pupils settling in?
- What is your approach to pastoral care or academic stretch?
4. During the Virtual Open Day:
- How to Engage
Be punctual – log in a few minutes early to check sound and video - Introduce yourself in chat if appropriate — especially helpful in smaller sessions
- Take notes or screenshots to help you remember key details
- Ask questions via the Q&A feature or live chat
- If breakout rooms are offered (e.g., meet the Head of Sixth Form, Boarding House tours), try to attend those relevant to your child’s stage
5. After the Event: Next Steps
Once the event is over:
- Discuss your impressions with your child or other family members
- Review any follow-up materials sent by the school
- Reach out with additional questions — schools are often happy to arrange one-to-one virtual meetings or follow-up calls
- If you’re still interested, consider booking an in-person visit or personal tour later in the admissions process
For International Families
Virtual open days are particularly useful if you’re applying from abroad:
- Ask about English as an Additional Language (EAL) support
- Inquire about boarding life, integration for international students, and visa guidance
- Clarify term dates, travel considerations, and guardianship policies
Final Thoughts
Virtual open days are an excellent way to explore UK independent schools — whether you’re early in your school search or finalising your shortlist. By preparing ahead of time and actively participating, you can gather valuable insights into each school’s ethos, community, and academic offering.