Choosing the right school for their child is one of the most important decisions parents will make. A school is not only a place where children attend classes and complete assignments. It is also an environment where they acquire knowledge, confidence and values and cultivate friendships and skills that will shape their future. With the wide range of private and international schools available today, parents often find themselves comparing and evaluating different curricula, teaching approaches, facilities and school cultures before deciding which environment best suits their child.
One of the best ways to understand a school beyond its website or brochure is by attending a school open day. It provides parents with the opportunity to explore the campus, meet teachers, interact with staff and experience what the school' has to offer firsthand. However, with so much information presented during an open day, it can sometimes be difficult to know what questions to ask.
Asking the right questions can help parents gain deeper insights into a school's approach, values and learning environment. Before attending your next school open day, here are ten important questions to help you make the most of your visit and determine whether a particular school is the right fit for your child.
1. What is the school's teaching philosophy?
Every school has its own approach to education, and understanding this philosophy is an important first step for parents. While some schools may place a stronger focus on academic achievement and examination results, others may emphasise creativity, independent learning, collaboration and holistic development.
During an open day, parents can learn how the school’s educational philosophy is reflected in everyday classroom experiences, from teaching methods and learning activities to the way students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically and develop a strong character alongside academic knowledge.
A school's teaching philosophy shapes its classroom environment, assessment methods and approach to student support. Understanding these values allows parents to determine whether the school's approach aligns with their child's personality, interests and learning style.
2. How does the school support each child's individual learning needs?
Every child learns differently. Some students may excel academically, while others may discover their strengths through creativity, sports, leadership or other areas. A good school recognises these differences and provides support to help each child reach their potential.
Parents can find out how the school identifies and supports different learning needs, including the availability of additional support, enrichment programmes and teaching approaches that cater to different learning styles.
A supportive learning environment ensures that every child receives the guidance he needs to progress academically while building confidence, motivation and a positive attitude towards learning.
3. What curriculum does the school offer and why?
The curriculum is one of the key factors parents consider when choosing a school. Private and international schools may offer different educational pathways, including recognised programmes such as Cambridge IGCSE, International Baccalaureate (IB) and other international or national curricula.
Instead of focusing only on the name of the curriculum, parents should understand how it is delivered and what learning skills it develops. Ask how students are assessed, how lessons are structured and how the curriculum supports different learning abilities.
A strong curriculum should go beyond academic results. It should encourage students to develop communication skills, creativity, critical thinking and the ability to apply knowledge in real-life situations.
4. What opportunities are available outside the classroom?
Learning does not only happen inside the classroom. Activities outside academics play an important role in helping children discover their interests, build confidence and develop essential life skills.
During an open day, parents should ask about the school's extracurricular activities, including sports, the performing arts, clubs, competitions, leadership programmes and community initiatives. These experiences allow students to explore their passions while developing teamwork, discipline and responsibility.
A well-rounded education provides children with opportunities to grow beyond textbooks and examinations, and to become more confident and balanced individuals.
5. How does the school support the overall well-being of the student?
A child's emotional and social wellbeing is just as important as his academic success. Students learn best when they feel safe, supported and valued within their school environment.
Parents should ask about the school's approach to pastoral care and student wellbeing.
- Does the school provide counselling services?
- How does it support students who experience challenges?
- What measures are in place to encourage positive relationships and prevent bullying?
Parents can also take the opportunity to observe the overall atmosphere during their visit, including how students interact with teachers and whether the school environment feels welcoming and supportive. These observations can offer valuable insights into the school's culture and values.
6. How does the school’s size and structure support the students’ learning experience?
The size and structure of a school can greatly influence a child's learning experience. Some families may prefer a smaller school environment with more personalised attention, while others may value a larger community with more facilities and activities.
During an open day, parents can learn about the school's student population, class sizes, student-to-teacher ratio and how students are supported across different year levels. Ultimately, the ideal school size is one that meets the needs of a child's personality, learning needs and comfort level.
7. How does the school communicate with parents?
A strong partnership between schools and parents plays an important role in supporting a child's education journey. Regular communication allows parents to stay informed about their child's progress and achievements and identifies areas for improvement.
Parents can find out how the school maintains communication with families, including the channels used to share updates such as digital platforms, emails, meetings or reports. They can also learn how frequently parents receive feedback to their queries and what opportunities are available for them to get involved in school activities.
Understanding the school's communication style and approach lets parents know how they can stay involved and support their child's learning experience.
8. What technology and learning facilities are available?
Technology has become an important part of modern education, but it should be used meaningfully to enhance learning. Parents should explore how the school integrates technology into classroom activities and whether students are encouraged to use digital tools responsibly.
Parents are encouraged to take the opportunity of the Open Day to view facilities such as libraries, science laboratories, sports areas, creative spaces and technology rooms. They could ask questions about the ways in which these facilities support students' learning and development.
A school's facilities should not only look impressive but also provide opportunities for students to learn through exploration, collaboration and practical experiences.
9. How does the school prepare students for university and future pathways?
For many parents, choosing a school is not only about a child's current education but also about preparing them for the next stage of their journey. During an open day, parents can ask how the school supports students with university applications, choice of courses, subjects to major in and future academic planning.
Parents can also learn about the school's university counselling services, graduate outcomes and guidance programmes. A school that provides strong support beyond the classroom enables students to acquire e confidence, skills and the knowledge needed to pursue their future goals.
10. What makes a particular school different from others?
With many schools offering similar programmes and facilities, it is important for parents to understand what are the features that make a particular school unique.
This question allows schools to highlight their key strengths, including their educational approach, teaching practices, specialised programmes and commitment to student development. Parents should decide on the basis of their observations whether the school environment and teacher support aligns with their child’s learning needs and growth.
The right school is not necessarily the one with the biggest campus or the longest list of achievements. It is the one that is most likely to fulfil their child’s needs, interests and aspirations.
A school open day is more than just a visit to the campus. It is an opportunity for parents to gain valuable insights into the school’s environment, educational approach and commitment to student development.
By preparing thoughtful questions, observing classroom interactions and speaking with teachers, parents are likely to have a better understanding of how the school supports students academically, socially and emotionally. Taking the time to explore these aspects allows parents to make a more informed decision and decide whether the school is the right fit for their child.
In the final analysis, the right learning environment should help children build confidence, discover their strengths and continue growing both academically and personally.
