Carfax Education UAE shares a complete guide to maximising your school visit with these key questions
Glossy prospectuses can start to blur together when choosing a school, making it challenging to distinguish between options.
Once you have a shortlist, a visit is essential to get a feel for the school’s culture and ethos.
Meeting teachers, talking to pupils and experiencing the atmosphere firsthand is the best way to gauge if it’s the right fit for your child.
Here are some key questions to ensure you come away from your school visit with all the answers:
Quiz the teachers
Engage with teachers and ask direct questions like, “What’s the staff turnover rate?” or “Would you send your child here?” These answers can reveal a lot about teacher satisfaction and school stability.
Chat with pupils
Talk to pupils to get the real story. Ask them what they love about the school and what they don’t. Their insights can give you a glimpse into your child’s potential experience.
Understand leadership
Learn about the school’s leadership. How long has the Head been there? Are they involved in daily activities? Strong, accessible leadership often translates to a well-run school.
Observe pupil engagement
Watch how pupils interact in class and during break times. Are they engaged, happy, and responsive? The overall atmosphere will help you assess if the environment suits your child. Try to see a range of classes and activities, including in the playground and a language class.
Check pastoral support
Ask about the school’s support and wellbeing systems. Who is responsible for pastoral care? How do they handle issues like bullying or stress? Knowing there is a robust support network can make a big difference, especially during tough times. This is a great opportunity to ask about additional learning support, special needs provision, or any other extras your child might benefit from.
Explore extracurriculars/co-curriculars
Beyond academics, extracurricular activities are crucial for developing well-rounded individuals. Whether your child is into sports, coding or the arts, ensure the school offers programmes that align with their interests.
Inspect the facilities
Schools in the UAE are known for their outstanding facilities. But don’t be dazzled by shiny new buildings. Instead, focus on what’s happening inside. Check out the classrooms, see what’s on display, and visit the library. These small details often speak volumes.
Speak with current parents
While inspection reports and websites provide valuable information, existing parents often offer great insights. They can give you honest feedback on everything from academics to after-school programmes. Regular updates on progress and opportunities for involvement in the school community are positive signs.
Clarify fees
Understand what the school fees cover. Some schools in the UAE offer all-inclusive fees that include extracurriculars, outings, and uniforms, or some provide a discount for founding families. Compare costs and see what you’re really getting for your money.
Align with school values
Finally, ensure the school’s values match your own. Are they more than just words on a wall? Talk to other parents and see if these values are genuinely reflected in the school’s culture.
UAE SCHOOLS SHARE THEIR TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD
“When you enter a school and walk around, you’ll know whether it is right for you!” Jumeriah College
“Ensure the school offers a curriculum that matches your child’s learning style and goals.” Cranleigh Abu Dhabi
“The location is crucial. Proximity to home can ease daily commutes and help children settle into a new routine.” Arcadia British School
“Choose a school that is the right fit for you and your family; this will be your community too.” Dubai British School, Jumeirah Park
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