Time to start looking at schools

[Bedsheets4knickers]

Ds starts reception in September . How do I go about arranging a visit.?? Or should I wait for open days. Does everyone visit schools or do they just go by word of mouth and wafts available in catchment area x

Are you talking about state schools?

I would wait for open days.

In the meantime, research your area. Are there catchment areas, or just effective catchments? Which schools do you stand a chance of getting into? It's pointless visiting a lovely school and tthen finding out that you will never get in.

Definitely do visit though.

Yes state schools I know the 3 closest . Our closest 1 is thankfully the most popular. I'm not sure waft to look for once I'm there.

The biggest thing for me was the feel. Did the children seem happy and engaged. Were the walls brightly covered in displays. Does the head greet kids in the corridor.

Then ask about any issues raised by ofsted that bother you. Pastoral care was big for me so I asked about things like policy on bullying etc. I also asked about technology teaching.

Get onto your LEA website and see what catchment(s) you are in and whether you are likely to get into those schools; see which other schools you may get into. Then call the schools you are likely to get into & see if they do an open day or individual tours. As well as the education, think about wraparound care, traffic, parking etc and other practical things like that.

Ive had a look at a few, the ones closest to me. DD goes to a private day nursery so not one attached to a school and I was concerned that would mean she would get the last space as nursery children would automatically be offered a reception place at that school but I am assured that is not the case.

Agree about the 'feel' of the school, the school in special measures near me feels much better than the one rated good.
Feel anxious about getting the paperwork!!

Why do I keep typing waft??

Do lots of research on where you have a chance of and visit. !!

www.theguardian.com/education/2014/sep/23/choosing-primary-school-guide-teachers-guide-for-parents

Oooh thanks il take a look x