13 Questions to Ask on School Visits

Choosing the right school for your child after the 11 Plus is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. While online research provides a starting point, nothing beats an in-person visit, especially when it comes to secondary schools, where academic expectations, pastoral care, and long-term goals all come into play.

To get a complete picture, it’s essential to arrive with purposeful questions. This list outlines exactly what to ask during your visit on school open days, so you can evaluate whether a particular school is the right fit for your child’s learning and well-being.

Find the Right School for Your Child: Important Questions to Ask on Open Days in a Secondary School

Question 1: What is the school’s ethos and approach to learning?

Understanding the school’s ethos gives you insight into how your child will be taught and supported. Are the lessons focused on academic excellence, creativity, inclusivity, or emotional development? 

Ask how values are reinforced during the school day and in interactions between teachers, support staff, and other pupils.

Question 2: How is student progress tracked and supported?

Find out how much emphasis the teachers place on academic and individual achievement. 

How is performance monitored across key GCSE subjects? Does the school continue with sixth form education? Are there specialist school interventions if a student falls behind or needs additional challenge?

Question 3: What subjects and learning pathways does the school offer?

A strong school offer should include a broad selection of academic and vocational subjects, with flexibility for future progression into sixth form, college, or apprenticeships. Ask how students are supported when selecting their GCSE options.

Question 4: How much emphasis does the school place on supporting pupil well-being and mental health?

A happy school is one where pupils feel safe, valued, and heard. Ask about the school’s pastoral systems, counselling services, anti-bullying policies, and the role of teachers, tutors, or mentors.

Question 5: How are behaviour and discipline managed?

Understanding the school’s approach to behaviour is key. Is there a clear code of conduct for students? How are expectations communicated? What happens when issues arise? How do they involve parents in these situations?

Question 6: What extra-curricular activities are available?

Ask about the range of extracurricular activities and clubs offered for students—whether that’s sport, music, drama, coding, or debating. Are these activities part of the timetable, or do they run before or after official hours?

Question 7: How does the school support children with special educational needs?

If applicable, ask how the school provides for pupils with special educational needs. Is there a dedicated SENCO? How are teaching adjustments made to help all students feel included in the classroom?

Question 8: What are the school’s facilities like?

Take note of the physical environment. Are there up-to-date classrooms, science labs, creative studios, sports fields, quiet areas, and IT suites? Facilities can strongly influence both academic and social activities. 

But facilities are not only for a child’s education. Parents should make sure to also ask about facilities and services that promote student safety.

Question 9: What is the leadership style of the headteacher and senior staff?

Speak to the school headteacher or senior leadership if possible. Strong leadership sets the tone for the whole school. Ask about their vision, presence in school life, and how they engage with the children and their families. 

If you’re unable to speak to the head, try to get some insights from a qualified teacher. It might also be smart to talk to other parents who’ve enrolled their children in the school.

Question 10: How are parents kept informed and involved?

Ask how the school communicates with parents and families. Are there regular newsletters, digital portals, and formal parents’ evenings? How can parents support learning at home?

Question 11: How does the school prepare children for life beyond school?

Ask how the school helps prepare students for further education or the world of work. Are there career advisers, workplace visits, or connections with other schools, universities, and employers? Are there any specific lessons in the curriculum, for example, that help students excel outside of school?

Question 12: What are the hours for school, extracurricular activities, and term dates?

Find out the structure of the school’s academic year, the daily timetable, and any wraparound care or extra-curricular clubs outside regular school hours. This is especially important for parents balancing work schedules. 

Question 13: What’s the admissions process, and how many apply?

Ask how to secure a place: Are there entrance criteria? How many applications does the school typically receive each year? Are there waiting lists, and how are places allocated compared to different schools?

A Happy School Makes a Happy Student

There are many schools to choose from, and each will have its own strengths. Visiting in person during open days and asking thoughtful questions gives parents the clearest picture of whether it’s the right new school for their child. 

Observe, ask, and listen. Gather all the information you need—from school teachers, staff members, and current students—to make the best decision for your family. Look beyond results and focus on the full learning environment: the school curriculum, relationships, support systems, and enrichment opportunities.