In my previous post I focused on criteria such as academic results and the quality of teaching when choosing a school. But a good school choice isn't only about academics. In this post we look at other important factors to consider beyond academic results. Many details, from the school's facilities and social environment to transport and parent–school communication, can directly affect your child's education.
School Visits (School Visit / Open Day)
If at all possible, go and see the school in person.
Some things only become clear when you visit:
- How teachers and students communicate with each other
- The general atmosphere: is it warm, cold, friendly?
- How are the walls, displays and classrooms used? Is students' work on show?
- What are the playground and outdoor areas like?
Besides the open day, try to book a visit on an “ordinary” day, because on open days everything may have been made to look ideal.
Teaching Staff and Stability
You can see this in the statistics, but also look out for:
- Is there frequent teacher turnover?
- How many times has the headteacher or leadership team changed in recent years?
Constantly changing staff can make continuity in teaching difficult. Ofsted reports sometimes mention this too.
School Culture and Values
Look through the school's website. Pay attention to:
- How is behaviour managed? Are the rewards and sanctions system clear?
- How much is parental involvement encouraged?
- Is there values education? (For example, are ideas like respect and responsibility taught?)
Extracurricular Activities
- Are there activities in areas like art, music, sport and drama?
- Do clubs run regularly? Are they open to every year group?
- Are there school trips, themed days or community projects?
These activities help a child develop in non-academic areas and enjoy going to school.
Diversity & Inclusion
- Are there children from different backgrounds at the school?
- How does the school approach children with special educational needs (SEN)?
- Are differences treated with respect?
If your child has SEN, be sure to meet the school's SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator).
What Do Parents Say?
- You can gather information from other parents (neighbours, social media groups, WhatsApp groups).
- But be careful! This information can be very subjective. Always ask why people are positive or negative.
A parent may be unhappy with a school, but perhaps only because of an individual situation with their own child.
How the School Communicates
- Is the website up to date?
- Are there regular newsletters or emails for parents?
- How quickly do they reply to questions?
Details like these show how openly and efficiently the school works with parents.
Conclusion: The Right School Is Different for Every Family and Every Child
Choosing a school is about much more than numbers and rankings. As well as academic results, it's important to find an environment where your child will feel safe and happy, and where their individual differences will be respected.
Remember, the idea of a “perfect school” is different for everyone. Rather than the perfect school, we're looking for the school that's right for your child. Even if you don't have many options, you can weigh up your situation more carefully and make the most of its strengths.
I hope this post helps you with your decision.
Alongside this post on what to look for beyond academic results, for primary schools you can also read this guide , and for secondary schools this guide .