Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Primary School | For Parents

What does the curriculum actually cover, and how does it prepare a child for the next stage? Ask not just which subjects are taught, but how literacy and numeracy are built up year on year, and what happens if a child falls behind in one area.

How is progress reported, and how often? Some schools send a report once a year, others track and share progress every term. The more regular the update, the sooner you and the school can act together if something needs attention.

How large are the classes, and how many pupils does each teacher work with directly? This affects how much individual attention your child is likely to receive day to day.

What support exists for a child who needs a little extra help, or one who is ready to move faster than the rest of the class? A good school should have an answer for both.

What happens outside the core timetable, creative arts, physical activity, computing, a second language? These shape a well rounded education just as much as the main subjects.

How does the school handle the transition from nursery, or from another primary school if your child is changing schools partway through? Ask what support is in place for a new pupil's first few weeks.

Finally, ask to see the school in session rather than only on an open day, if that is possible. An ordinary Tuesday tells you more than a showcase does.