School open days allow parents to make school choices

Many schools are advertising open days at this time of year - but there are three things parents almost always want to know before they choose a school.

School open days are an importatn way for parents to choose the right school for their child.

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If  you’ve travelled past schools in the past few weeks, you may have seen signs promoting their open days. This is the time of year when parents are invited to check out prospective schools ahead of enrolling their children in either Kindergarten, Year 7 or Year 11.

Parents often tell me they are looking for three things when they attend open days.

Parents at a school open day

Three questions parents always ask

1. The quality of learning and teaching – will the school be able to cater for the needs of their child?

2. Student safety and wellbeing – will their child feel safe and nurtured, and how effectively will the school address important issues such as bullying, should it occur?

3. Communication – what does feedback look like between home/school or parent/teacher, and will parents be encouraged to play an active role in their child’s learning?

Parents often want to know what a school’s policy is on dealing with bullying.

Primary school open days are usually run during school hours so prospective parents and children can see learning and teaching in action. Open days and school tours are important as they offer an opportunity to chat informally to teachers, parents and students, and get a close-up look at the school’s facilities.

They provide the chance to get a “feel for the school”.

RendezView. Parent teacher conference interview. (Pic: iStock)

Remember that first impressions count, so when you and your child enter a school, ask yourself (and ask your child as well!) if it feels warm, welcoming and inclusive. How friendly are the staff? How does the principal interact with you and your child? Sometimes in secondary schools, it will be the students who will lead the tours. I cannot think of a better way of seeing a school than through the eyes of other students.

My advice is go to as many open days as you can and do your research. Finally, bear in mind that much of what happens in schools is not always on show!

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