Need to know questions to ask when looking at schools?
Well, let’s start by pinning down the ones to consider to give you the best head-start…
Depending on your location, options may include public schools, private/independent schools, charter schools, religious/faith-based schools, and, of course, there’s always homeschooling.
Most of these can be ruled out when considering your own situation, location, money and religion, all narrowing down the choice and making a final decision easier.
Very.
It’s common now for schools to only accept pupils from the nearby surrounding area as a contribution to lessoning our carbon footprint. Pupils are encouraged to walk to school and, in my experience, the topic comes up frequently in lessons where children are asked to detail how they get to school - as though they make the decision.
Though, in truth, not being caught in the school traffic can lesson stress for all concerned on a daily basis, with a long commute also affecting your child’s energy and family routines.
Proximity may also determine access to after-school activities or having friends in the same neighbourhood.
Check whether it aligns with your child’s needs and interests - e.g., traditional academics, STEM* focus (see note below), arts, languages, sports, or project-based learning.
If looking at secondary schools, check out that they offer the learning your child could be interested in after choosing their options, for instance, a particular language or science?
*STEM education refers to an approach to teaching and learning that integrates four key disciplines:
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics
Rather than teaching these subjects separately, STEM education emphasises interdisciplinary learning - using real-world problems and projects to help students apply knowledge across these fields. The goal is to develop skills like critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and digital literacy, which are increasingly important in today’s technology-driven world.
Consider teacher–student ratios in the classrooms, teacher qualifications, staff turnover, and whether teachers receive ongoing professional development.
Is the head teacher admired and respected? How long have they been there? Did they go up the ranks or have they recently been brought in? Was there a reason?
Smaller class sizes often mean more individual attention, though teaching quality and resources matter just as much.
Note: I believe this aspect can be determined by knowing your child and whether they’d thrive in a smaller, or bigger, class.
Look at its mission statement, observe interactions during visits, talk to current parents, and see how diversity, inclusion, and respect are promoted.
Look at classrooms, libraries, labs, sports facilities, art spaces, technology access, and whether they support both academics and extracurricular interests. Are their facilities up to date, for instance in the labs?
Check out how clean the school looks and whether it needs updating or maintenance.
They can play a big role in developing social skills, teamwork, and personal interests.
Check out if the school offers sports, music, arts, clubs, or other enrichment opportunities.
Ask about special education resources, counselling, language support for non-native speakers, and how the school handles different learning styles.
With easy access to the internet, you can review standardised test scores, inspections or accreditation reports, graduation/college placement rates, and awards - but balance this with how happy and supported children seem when you attend open days.
Check policies on bullying, discipline methods, digital safety, and how the school communicates with parents about concerns.
For public schools, consider funding levels and resource availability.
For private schools, consider tuition, scholarships, and hidden costs (uniforms, trips, extracurriculars).
Age-appropriate involvement helps.
Visit schools together, ask how they feel, and consider their personality, learning style, and social needs.
Tour during school hours, attend open houses, observe classes if possible, and talk to teachers, administrators, and current families.
When looking for a school, the education available is, of course, a huge part but remember to consider your child.
Some thrive in larger schools where they’ll meet more children to befriend, however, others are more suited to smaller schools where they could feel safer.
Know your child and what they need before making such a critical decision. Going to school is the basis for the rest of their lives and avoiding stress - not challenges - could build their confidence rather than crush it if they feel over-whelmed.
Do your research and open the doors for your child to receive the best education they can, leading them to become confident, happy adults.
Good luck,