Oadmissions 101
Open Day
A scheduled visit when prospective parents can tour a school and meet staff before applying.
An open day (or open evening) is a scheduled visit when prospective parents can tour a school, meet staff and ask questions before applying.
Open days are universal in English schools - state and independent. They typically include:
- A presentation by the headteacher
- A tour led by current pupils
- A chance to meet subject teachers
- Q&A and prospectus collection
A few practical tips for getting the most out of one:
- Talk to pupils, not just staff. Children are more candid than the prospectus.
- Visit during a normal school day too. Open events showcase the best version of the school; a normal weekday visit shows reality.
- Ask about transitions. What happens at the start of Year 7 (or Year 1)? How does the school handle a child who is well ahead of their peers?
- Visit at least two or three schools before deciding - it’s the comparison that builds your judgement.
Open day attendance does not count toward admissions and is not required to apply.
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