A Guide: What to look for when visiting Schools or Nurseries

Relocating and choosing the right educational setting for your child can feel overwhelming. Whether you're seeking a school or a nursery, the learning environment and educational approach will play a significant role in shaping your child's development and daily experiences. At Educatus, we understand that finding the right school or nursery is often the most crucial aspect of a move.

Dean of Admissions at ACS Hillingdon shared with us that -

“Choosing the right school is about more than academics, listen to how teachers and students interact, and envision your child thriving here. Look for a place where learning feels inspiring, supportive and aligned with your values”

Here are some key points to consider during your visit, and some tips around what questions to ask

Visiting a School

Learning Environments – What to Look For

• Child-Friendly and Stimulating: Ensure the classrooms and common areas are inviting and engaging for children. Look for vibrant displays, comfortable seating, and varied learning materials.

• Support for Independent Learning: Check if children’s work is displayed and celebrated. This not only boosts self-esteem but also creates a culture of achievement.

• Well-Organised and Accessible Resources: Resources should be easily accessible to children, fostering a sense of autonomy and curiosity.

• A Welcoming Place to Learn: Consider whether the environment feels like a place where you would enjoy learning. A positive atmosphere can greatly enhance a child’s educational experience.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: The school should be clean, orderly, and well cared for, reflecting pride in the learning environment.

• Effective Use of Technology: Observe how technology is integrated into learning. Are children given opportunities to use technology independently where appropriate?

Interactions with Children (If Visiting During School Hours)

• Engaged and Supportive Adults: Teachers and staff should be actively working alongside children, showing enthusiasm and a strong knowledge of the curriculum.

• Individual Attention: Staff should demonstrate a deep understanding of each child’s needs and personality.

• Positive Student Behavior: Notice whether children are polite, respectful, and engaged, both in classrooms and around the school.

Questions to Ask Regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL)

• EAL Policy: Inquire about the school’s approach to supporting children with English as an additional language.

• Qualified Staff: Ask if any staff members have specific qualifications in EAL.

• Assessment and Support: How are EAL students assessed, and what additional support is available?

• Language Development: How does the school encourage confidence in spoken English while maintaining the child’s first language?

Questions to Ask Regarding the School Bus Service

• Minimum Age and Supervision: Is there a minimum age for bus riders, and what supervision is provided?

• Operational Details: Request a detailed explanation of the school bus system.

• Additional Considerations: Ask about pupil and staff retention rates, as well as how the school supports new pupils, especially those joining mid-year.

“When visiting a school, pay attention to the energy of the classrooms, the engagement of the students, and the passion of the teachers. A great school is one where children feel both challenged and supported to reach their full potential.” - Dean of Admissions ACS Hillingdon

Visiting a Nursery

Learning Environments – What to Look For

• Happy and Engaged Children: Observe whether the children appear happy and engaged in activities.

• Child-Friendly and Stimulating: The environment should be inviting, with plenty of opportunities for exploration and play.

• Support for Independent Learning: The nursery should encourage children to follow their interests and learn independently.

• Well-Organised and Accessible Resources: Resources should be well-organised, easily accessible, and engaging for the children.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: The nursery should be clean, orderly, and well cared for.

• Safe and Secure Building: Ensure that the building feels safe and secure for the children.

• Clean Toilets and Changing Areas: Hygiene is crucial; check the cleanliness of these areas.

• Quality Equipment: Both indoor and outdoor equipment should be of good quality and well-maintained.

Interactions with Children

• Supportive Adults: Staff should be working alongside children to support their interests and development.

• Engaging and Knowledgeable Staff: Look for enthusiasm and knowledge in the staff’s interactions with children.

• Individual Attention: Staff should know the children well and provide individualized care and attention.

• Comforting Unhappy Children: If a child is upset, observe how staff comfort and support them.

Questions to Ask

• Staff Experience and Qualifications: What experience and qualifications do the staff have?

• Safer Recruitment Practices: Does the nursery follow safer recruitment practices?

• Staff Retention: How does the nursery ensure they retain their staff?

• Number of Children: How many children are currently enrolled in the nursery?

• Staff-to-Children Ratios: Ensure the nursery adheres to the childcare ratios outlined in the Statutory Guidance for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS).

• Outdoor Time: How often do the children go outside?

• Parental Communication: How will you stay informed of your child’s progress?

• Routine Flexibility: Does the nursery accommodate your child’s current routines?

• Sleep and Rest Areas: Where do the children sleep or rest?

• Dining Facilities and Menu: Where do the children eat, and can you see a sample menu?

• Daily Activities: Are activities planned for each day?

• Exercise: Is exercise a part of the curriculum?

Questions to Ask Regarding English as an Additional Language (EAL)

• EAL Policy: Does the nursery have a policy for supporting children with English as an additional language?

• Qualified Staff: Do any staff members have EAL qualifications?

• Support for EAL Children: How are EAL children supported in the nursery?

• Language Development: How does the nursery help children develop confidence in their spoken language?
  

  Relocating and choosing the right educational setting for your child can feel overwhelming. We hope these tips provide a useful framework for your school visits, helping you know what to look for and what questions to ask. From observing learning environments and staff interactions to inquiring about EAL policies and bus services, these insights aim to guide you in making informed decisions.

  Remember, we're here to assist you every step of the way in finding the best educational fit for your child.