Choosing a Primary School: What questions should I be asking...

[CarlaJo]

We are about to start visiting three local primary schools (DS is due to start next year) and I would really like to know from those who have already done this - what questions were really worth asking and revealed a lot about the school? Or, looking back, what questions do you wish you had asked before applying?

More than the questions you ask, or the schools academic record, trust your instinct on how happy the school is....if your child is happy and wants to go to school then they will learn, if they are not happy, they won't....they need to have a good basis in all areas, not all academic! these are our precious bundles that we have got to this stage of their lives with a rounded view on life....this needs to continue in school...good luck.

I know what you mean about instincts, Sanity - that was a big part of choosing a nursery for DS. I guess I'm just very nervous about this whole process because the choice does impact greatly on them at a very fragile stage in life.

I agree, as I always say its guilthood rather than parenthood, every decision and league table and SAT is there to say you were a bad parent...sorry slightly extreme, but I do have aslight hattred for league tables.....my dh loves them and bases decisions on them, whereas I want to know that there will be a friendly face smiling at my child in reception, that will nurture rather than demand,,,oooh sorry this isn't coming out right.

I have always trusted my gut...checked out the stats to justify to my dh why I have made my decision...but in my heart I know it has been down to the people and what I feel!

Sorry I cant be more scientific.