Choosing a primary school for your child can feel daunting. If it’s the first time your child is going to school. We’ve outlined some things you may want to consider when making your decision.
Atmosphere
The feeling of a school is incredibly important. Does it seem friendly? Do you get a sense that children are encouraged and have the freedom to learn in a way that is right for them? Are children well behaved? Do they seem happy? Take advantage of open days available at the school so you can see for yourself. Many of these are advertised on school websites, or you can contact the schools you are interested in to find out more.
Admissions policy
Many schools have different catchment areas or criteria to decide who gets priority over school places. It’s worth being aware of this so you know which ones your child is likely to get offered a place at.
Curriculum
Explore how the school delivers the curriculum particularly for early years. You can usually find this information on a school’s website.
Extracurricular activities
Does the school run after school clubs or are there any other activities that would be available to your child? What pastoral care does it have in place, and is there anything else the school provides that sets it apart?
School facilities
Find out as much as you can about school facilities and think about what is important to you and your child. Is there outdoor space for them to use? Where do they spend playtime? Are there other sporting facilities on site?
Practical considerations
There are many other practical things to consider when choosing a primary school, too, such as how far it is to get to the school. Many primary schools can have limited parking nearby, so a school that you can walk to would be ideal, or close enough to avoid lengthy journeys each day. If you’re working and need after school or breakfast clubs, this is also something to check for.
The closing date for school places applications is 15 January 2023. For more information about the primary school admissions in Kent, visit Kent County’s Council’s website . If you are in Bexley, the information can be found on the London Borough of Bexley website or for Woolwich, visit the London Borough of Greenwich .
