EDUCATION
“It is important that you are generally aligned with the philosophy of the head or principal, but more crucial is that you get to spend time with some of the staff who might be teaching your child.” This presentation is usually followed by a tour, the pivotal part of any open day, during which parents will be eagle-eyed. “Look closely at the classroom dynamic – is it one which shows real connection and energy?” says Tom. “Are the teaching staff vibrant, passionate and would you want to listen to them talking for an hour? Are there impressive people in key positions – head of safeguarding, pastoral and of the core departments? The English and maths departments should be driving the school forward academically, from the bottom up.” Tom suggests some other points to consider also: “What is their careers programme like? What percentage of students are getting into their first-choice next step, which does not just mean university. Schools need to be forward- looking and provide other viewpoints. Is there that flexibility?” Thinking outside the box in terms of choices around your child’s future may yield unexpected results. “I would recommend visiting schools that you perhaps weren’t considering – as many as you can fit in!” enthuses Jeanette. “It’s the best way to see if this school may be the perfect place for your child to thrive, strive and be the best version of themselves.” MAKING UP YOUR MIND When the open day is done and dusted, it’s OK to take a back seat in the decision making. “The absolute critical decision has to be made the next day, once you and your
MAKING A SPLASH St Mary’s Cambridge has a real focus on the arts, as well as STEM subjects
child have had a chance to reflect,” says Tom. “Are they going to be happy there? When they walk through the gates each day, are they going to feel safe, valued, excited at the challenges the day will pose, and will it be fun? Sometimes a school just clicks and ‘feels right’. That’s the holy grail. “Open days have become more important because the impact the pandemic had on our young people has shown us just how fundamental being in the right setting is,” continues Tom. “I would even go one step further in some cases and ask for a taster day.”
For those not able to attend, don’t fret. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that even without in-person events, there’s a wealth of resources at our fingertips. “The pandemic revolutionised the way many schools manage their open events and admissions processes,” says Fane. “What we’ve seen is that parents really value the additional content that has been made available to them online, and those who attend in-person events now seem to be much better informed and more serious about applying to the school. We are also seeing increasing interest from overseas, as international families are now able to access much more information about the school than they would have been privy to previously.” Ultimately, listening to your child’s feelings and concerns is a sure-fire way to ensure they are set for the future. With an abundance of resources and support from schools across Cambridgeshire, you’ll have no problem making the final call.
Look closely at the classroom dynamic – is it one which shows real connection and energy?
76 OCTOBER 2022 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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