Ah, primary school open days: a whirlwind of notice board displays, perfectly staged art projects, and the faint whiff of industrial-strength floor cleaner. Choosing the right primary school for your child is no small task, especially when schools are putting their absolute best foot forward. But fear not! Here are some top tips from primary school teachers across the UK to help you see through the glitter and glue sticks…
1. The Footwear Factor
Forget flashy facilities—start with the teachers’ shoes. Practical, comfy footwear screams “I’m in the trenches with your child!” while shiny heels or overly polished brogues hint at someone who’s more at home behind a desk. A teacher in gripless footwear isn’t going to keep up with your child when they decide to "explore" the playground bushes.
2. The Uniform Colour Test: Beauty Matters
It’s not shallow—uniform colour is key! A palette that flatters your child’s look will make school photos bearable for years. Bonus points if it’s easy to wash. If the colours scream "drab," the vibe might too.
3. Bring Your Child—The Ultimate Critic
Your child will sniff out the truth faster than a parent armed with a checklist. If the staff engage more with your child than with you, take it as a great sign. Conversely, if your little one suddenly clams up or clings to your leg, it might be worth digging into what’s making them uneasy.
4. The Teaching Assistant Litmus Test
Classroom assistants are the unsung heroes of every school. Chat with them—they’ll often give you an honest feel for the place, and their energy reflects the school’s ethos. A school that values and supports its teaching assistants will usually go the extra mile for its pupils too.
5. Smile Watch: The Face Tells All
Teachers’ smiles on open day are like windows into their souls. Genuine, warm smiles = happy, valued staff. Blank stares or forced grins? Red flag. Remember, a school that looks after its teachers will inevitably look after its pupils.
6. What Happens When Kids Feel Overwhelmed?
Ask the school what they offer for children who have tough days. Is there a quiet space or a trusted adult they can turn to? “Just tell a teacher” is too vague. Look for thoughtful, actionable support that reassures both you and your child.
7. Don’t Overlook Staff Turnover
Check how many staff have come and gone in recent years. If the numbers are high and not linked to things like retirements, consider it a warning sign. Teachers who feel valued and supported tend to stick around, and that consistency benefits everyone—especially your child.
8. Social Media: The Behind-the-Scenes Peek
School Instagram or Facebook pages are often treasure troves of insight. Are they celebrating coding challenges, outdoor adventures, and pupil achievements? Or are they a showcase of one-offs staged for photos? A school that promotes a balance of creativity, learning, and well-being is worth serious consideration.
9. Support for Struggling Students: Ask for Evidence
Be direct. Ask, “What do you do when a child is falling behind?” Push for specifics: how issues are identified, what systems are in place, and how progress is tracked. Generic answers like “extra classes and support in class” are meaningless without examples.
10. The Parent Community (aka “Tinder for Parents”)
One teacher joked about choosing a school based on the attractiveness of the parents. While not a dealbreaker, a friendly parent community is a nice bonus—these are the people you’ll be awkwardly nodding at during pick-up for years. A sense of camaraderie is priceless.
11. The Vibes Never Lie
Schools put on their best show during open days, but trust your gut. Beyond the shiny displays and rehearsed speeches, does the place feel warm, safe, and welcoming? Can you picture your child there—happy, thriving, and supported?
Final Thought: Pick a School That Supports Its Staff
A happy, valued staff equals happy, supported children. Local gossip about a school can be wrong and old Ofsted reports don’t give you the full picture. Look for genuine smiles, practical shoes, and thoughtful systems for both students and teachers. Oh, and make sure the uniform colour palette matches your child’s aesthetic—after all, you’ve got years of school photos ahead. And, if the school’s uniform isn’t available from Ethical Schoolwear, let the Principal know we exist!
When in doubt, grab another cup of PTA tea, smile at the parents in the playground, and know that you’ll ace this!
In seven years, make sure you checkout the teachers' guide to choosing a secondary school.