Primary School Series: What to Look for at the Open Mornings
Do your research, talk to parents, and visit open mornings to make a sensible decision when selecting a primary school.
For the past few months, I have attended an open morning at various primary schools at least once a week. In addition to the three primary schools within my catchment area, I also visited other primary schools within walking distance. I am the kind of person who needs to research everything before I make a sensible decision. So here I am; my head is spinning as I look through my notes on what I like about each school.
Do Your Research: SATs, Ofsted Reports, Parent’s Views
What should you look for in a primary school? To start, I would say start by doing some research of each school, such as the Standard Assessment Tests (SATs) and Ofsted report. Yes, your brain will probably explode looking at all this data. It is difficult to make sense of all this information. But, the best thing to do is to triangulate all the information and come up with some sensible conclusions.
Furthermore, I would not fret if the local primary school is rated “good” rather than “outstanding” on their Ofsted report. Of course, this is my own personal opinion. Ofsted reports are a “snapshot” view of a school based on a one or two day visit from an Ofsted assessor. These Ofsted reports are good background reading, but can be subjective even if the inspector does follow a general framework. Also note that “outstanding” schools are exempt for another review for at least four years, if not longer. I was surprised that some local “outstanding” primary schools haven’t been assessed by Ofsted since 2011/2012. So yes, some Ofsted reports are very outdated.
As for SATs scores, although pupils take KS1 (Y2) SATs, only KS2 (Y6) SATs are formally published by the Department of Education. Year 6 pupils will sit SATs in Maths, English Reading, English Grammar, Punctuation and Spelling. Each school will then be benchmarked against Local Authority and National averages. It is worth looking at the SATs to gauge pupil outcomes, but bear in mind that SATs scores will fluctuate year on year.
Lastly, I would canvass honest and constructive views from parents, especially from parents who have older Year 6 kids. This way, they can give a broad overview of the school rather than just the early years. If there is a parent who have (or had) their kids attended different primary schools in the local area, that would be really helpful as they can give a comparative perspectives on the schools.
Visit Open Mornings
I attended around six open mornings of different local state primary schools within a mile radius of my home. Except for one school who restricted the tour to the reception classrooms only, the rest of the schools gave parents full tours of the school with either the Head Teacher or current Year 6 students. In no particular order, below are things I look at when visiting a school during the open mornings.
Atmosphere & Environment: In the short hour at the local primary school, I try to get a sense of the atmosphere of the school. For me, the school should be warm, inviting, and welcoming. The walls should proudly adorn artwork by pupils. The school should be a happy and safe place for learning. Personally, I like the “two form” entry primary schools for the small school atmosphere. Two forms means there are two classes of 30 students at each grade so the total student population is around 420 pupils, compared to a three form entry with a student population of 630.
Students and Teachers Dynamics: I like to see students of all years in action in the classroom, especially the Year 6 students as these kids will be moving on to secondary school. I try to observe their behaviour in the classrooms and the rapport between the teacher and students. Remember your child’s journey at primary school is beyond the reception year, it’s for the next seven years. Some schools select a handful of Year 6 “model” students as tour guides. Other schools have the whole Year 6 class participate in the open mornings. Nonetheless, it’s a good opportunity to ask Year 6 students questions.
Head Teacher: I also take note of the Head Teacher as I believe s/he sets the tone and direction of school. One school had a strong emphasis on arts which is no surprise as the Head Teacher comes from an arts background. The Head Teachers I met vary in personality from super-friendly to no-nonsense and one who was unfortunately passive aggressive. Besides taking on the duties of a school administrator, it’s always nice to see that some Head Teachers are hands-on with the kids and know most students by first name.
School Facilities & Open Space: Living in an inner London borough, space is a premium. The school footprint may be small, but adequate. Some schools are creative in creating extra outdoor space. One local school transformed a rooftop garden into a relaxing reading area with a magical igloo dome with views of Canary Wharf. “Through schools” make use of shared outdoor space with the affiliated secondary school. Other schools make use of their local parks for sports activities. In any case, take a view whether the space to pupil ratio is adequate.
Practical & Logistical Matters: Unless a school is exceptional and worth the extra trek, there are also practical matters to consider. For example, the provision of onsite after-school clubs and childminders which is helpful for working parents. I always try to envisage the school run itself, keeping in mind any major roads-crossing which may be dangerous. I also keep in mind the added extra time to get to a train station for the commute to work.
Final Words: Go with your Gut Instinct
I encourage you to do your research, speak to parents with Year 6 kids, and make the most of the open mornings at your local schools. Every parent will have a different opinion of a school, but do not let other parents’ comments influence your own views. Finally, my last word of advice is to ultimately go with your gut instinct as you know your child best. Lastly, wherever your child attends school, they will thrive with your love and support because you are truly wonderful parents.
For all parents who are going through the same process, I wish you all the best and good luck!
Also in this series:
Primary School Series: US vs UK Educational System
Primary School Series: State Schools vs Independent Schools
