January is the time of year when parents and primary pupils hop on the merry-go-round of Open Nights to try and find the school that best suits them. After a two-year break, schools will finally open their doors to prospective pupils and their parents to allow them to get a taste for life as a post-primary student.

Choosing a school can be a very exciting experience but perhaps a bit daunting; Headmaster, Mr Robert Robinson, MBE, shares some tips as to what parents should look out for.

Look for the little things; When visiting the school observe how the pupils behave, how they interact with their teachers, with each other, with you and with your child. Whilst the address from the Principal will give you a clear idea as to the values of the School, the most important thing is the feeling you get from the atmosphere of the place.

Pupils are the best advocates for a school – if they are allowed to be. Ask the pupils as many questions as you can and be sure these are open questions, without a yes/no answer “Why do you enjoy school?”. Ask yourself the question ‘Does this school seem to be a place where my child would fit?’ This is not the same as ‘I want my child to go here!’

The key is finding a school that is best for your child, whilst also considering how you can be involved in the school and in your child’s education. Asking the question, ‘Would I fit in?’ The partnership between parent, pupil and school is the foundation of a strong approach to a child’s education.

Be practical, what would it be like to attend? How is the uniform worn? How are the manners of the pupils you meet?

Read the information the schools give and view the content they provide online, gauge the authenticity of the activity offered by what the pupils tell you, find out as much as you can about each school being considered and then decide. “

We look forward to introducing you to the Campbell Community.