Questions to ask when choosing an education setting

We understand that choosing a nursery, school, or college can be tough.

You may have lots of questions that you want to ask the teachers and headteacher. Or, you may be unsure what to ask, and that is okay. So to help you, we have put together a list of helpful questions to ask or to think about asking.

If you have any concerns or issues, you should raise them as early as possible.

What to do first

Read their latest OFSTED report. The reports will give you an insight into the school's:

quality of education
behaviour and attitudes
personal development opportunities
leadership and management.

The next step is to visit their website.

The final step is to take part in an open days or evening. Or contact them to arrange a visit. If your child has an education, health and care (EHC) plan, take your annual review paperwork when visiting.

Questions to ask the education setting

Getting ready for school

What is the uniform?
What equipment do I need to have ready for the first day?
Is there a settling-in session?

About the first day

Where do I go on the first day?
What time must I get there?
Where will my child hang their coat and bag?
Is there a timetable?
What time does the day end?
Who can collect my child?

Special educational needs support

What specialist support is available?
What SEN experience or qualifications do you have?
What strategies have been effective?
How do you communicate about my child to other teaching staff ?
How do you communicate with me?
Do you cover the Graduated Approach (assess, plan, review, do)?
Is there a designated safe or quiet place’?
Will a staff member join me in any transition or annual review meetings?
Can I talk to the SENCO about any concerns you have?
Are there any hearing loops?

Health support

My child still needs pull-ups; who will help them?
Is there free drinking water?
Who do I speak to to let you know about any sickness?
Is there someone in charge of giving medication?
Are staff trained to give medication? Where will they store it throughout the day?
How do I let you know about hospital appointments?
How will you help with the feeling of being independent?
Are staff trained to give personal care?

Education support

What specific support is available in class?
What curriculum do you cover?
How long as the lessons?
What support is available in exams?
Are there dedicated higher-level needs areas?
Is there a buddy system in place when joining?
Can you show me the library or computer room to help with learning?

Accessibility of the school building

How accessible is the building?
What assistive technology is available?
Where are the toilets? Is there a disabled toilet? Are they accessible with or without support?
Is there a lift? Is it accessible with or without support?
Are there stairs, and if so, is there a handrail or a ramp?

Breaks and lunchtime

How many breaks are there in the day?
How long are the breaks during the day?
What happens at playtime and where does it take place?
What happens at lunchtime?
How big is the playground and how many year groups access the area at the same time?
Are there any activities during break times?
Are there any lunchtime clubs?
How many year groups are accessing the hall at one time?
What are the seating arrangements like?
Are there quiet or sensory areas to eat?
Are there school dinner menus?
What are the packed lunch arrangements?
How will you support dietary requirements?

Policies

What's your take on bullying?
What is your behaviour policy?
Is there a learning support policy?
What is your inclusion policy?
Do you have an accessibility statement?
What early years support do you have? (according to Best Practice Guidance (PDF, 808.5 KB))
Do you offer help via the Mainstream Core Standards? (schools and post 16)
How do they help young people to Prepare for Adulthood? (year 9 upwards)
Do you have a Co-production Charter?
What is their SEND policy?

Clubs and activities

Are there any after school clubs?
Do you run a breakfast club?
What trips do you offer?

Transport

How is it best to get to the education setting; a taxi, a bus or a train?
Where do taxis or cars park for pick up?
What transport can I apply for?
Do you offer any transport?

Choose an education setting

Once you are happy with your choice, apply for a place at a: