Open days at UK boarding schools
Your family have made the choice to send your child to boarding school, so what’s next? OPEN DAYS!
Even if you have a particular school in mind, attending an open day is key as you get a chance to explore the campus, meet faculty and staff and learn more about the school’s approach.
Getting a feel for the school will allow you to assess if it is the right fit for your son/daughter. Remember, no two schools are the same.
Child’s Perspective
Where possible, take your child with you. They are the ones who will be attending the school after all, so they need to be able to get a feeling for the school in advance. This will also help when it comes to school interviews.
By being part of the decision-making process, your child can feel enthusiastic about their education. Your priorities as a parent will not be the same as your child, so they will give their perspective based on what they’re looking for in their schooling.
Questions
Interacting with staff and current students is the most beneficial element of an open day. Think about what kind of questions you want to ask and discuss with your child about questions they might want to ask. Consider:
1) What questions might it be useful for my child to ask staff?
e.g.
I am currently in the school orchestra but would like to take on a new instrument, is this possible?
Do I get to select the halls I wish to be in or is this allocated?
2) What questions might be useful for my child to ask current students?
e.g.
What activities are available on the weekends for full-time boarders?
What happens when I need supplies such as stationery or toiletries?
3) What questions should I, as a parent, be asking?
e.g.
What is the pastoral support like?
How do you support students to thrive?
What do you look for in your admissions process?
Open Day Pitfalls
Timing mishaps: Being late for the Head’s address would not be looked at favourably.
Dress code: Wearing something either too smart or too scruffy is also something to avoid. Semi-formal is suggested, such as a collared shirt or blouse, rather than a suit, for children.
Lack of research: Make sure you look at all school websites before you visit to avoid asking simple questions.
Asking too many questions: Dominating a tour is a big no-no. Be mindful that there are other people there too.
Asking too few questions: Engagement matters and shows you are interested in the school. Try to engage in brief and natural conversation.
Think about it
After visiting as many schools as possible, sit down as a family and discuss the options and which suits your child and family best. Different members will have different priorities and deciding factors so it is important to have an open conversation. Remember your child’s emotional wellbeing is important and they are the ones who will have to attend the school.
By Yolanda Miller, 2024