Grammar School Open Days: Questions to Ask & How to Make the Most of Your Visit

As a mum of two and someone who’s spent over 20 years in education, I know that grammar school open days can feel both exciting and overwhelming. You’ve done the hard work of getting your child to this point, and now you’re faced with choosing the right school for their future. It’s a big decision, and I’m here to help you make the most of these crucial visits.

Why Grammar School Open Days Matter More Than You Think

Grammar school open days aren’t just about admiring the facilities or listening to the headteacher’s presentation. They’re your opportunity to look beyond the glossy prospectus and really understand whether this school will nurture your child’s potential. Every child is unique, and what works brilliantly for one might not suit another, even if they’re both academically gifted.

I’ve seen too many families get swept up in a school’s reputation without considering whether it’s the right fit for their child’s personality, learning style, and interests. The open day is your chance to dig deeper.

Essential Questions to Ask During Your Visit

About Academic Support and Challenge

“How do you support children who find certain subjects more challenging?” Even the brightest children have subjects they struggle with. A good grammar school should have robust support systems in place, not just assume that because a child passed the 11+ they’ll excel at everything.

“What enrichment opportunities do you offer beyond the curriculum?” Grammar schools should be stretching your child’s mind in all directions. Ask about debate clubs, science competitions, creative writing groups, or coding clubs. These experiences often matter as much as exam results.

“How do you handle the transition from primary school?” The jump to grammar school can be significant. Schools should have clear transition programmes and pastoral support to help children settle in confidently.

About Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

“What’s your approach to homework and academic pressure?” Grammar schools can be intense environments. You want to know they’re fostering a healthy relationship with learning, not creating anxious children who burn out before they reach their potential.

“How do you support children’s mental health and wellbeing?” This isn’t a luxury question, it’s essential. Ask about counselling services, mindfulness programmes, or how they handle exam stress.

“What happens if my child is struggling socially?” Academic ability doesn’t guarantee social confidence. The school should have clear strategies for helping children build friendships and feel included.

About the School Culture and Values

“Can you describe a typical day for a Year 7 student?” This gives you insight into the school’s rhythm and whether it suits your child’s energy levels and learning preferences.

“How do you celebrate different types of achievement?” Not every success is academic. Does the school value kindness, creativity, leadership, or community service alongside exam results?

“What’s your approach to discipline and behaviour management?” You want to understand whether their methods align with your family’s values and your child’s needs.

Making the Most of Your Visit: Beyond the Official Tour

Observe the Little Things

While the tour guide is talking, I encourage parents to watch the interactions between teachers and students in corridors. Are teachers greeting children warmly? Do students look happy and engaged? These glimpses of daily life tell you more than any presentation.

Pay attention to the displays on classroom walls. Are they showcasing only perfect work, or do you see evidence of learning journeys, mistakes that led to breakthroughs, and diverse types of achievement?

Talk to Current Students

If possible, chat with students you meet during the tour. Ask them what they love about the school and what they find challenging. Their honest responses can be incredibly revealing.

Trust Your Child’s Instincts

Bring your child if the school allows it, and pay attention to their reactions. Do they seem excited by what they see? Can they imagine themselves there? Sometimes children pick up on atmospheres that we adults miss.

Ask About the Practical Stuff

Don’t forget the logistics that affect daily life:

• What are the lunch arrangements?
• How does the house system work?
• What are the expectations around uniform and equipment?
• How do they handle lost property? (Trust me, this matters!)

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be cautious if a school:

• Seems more interested in their league table position than individual children
• Can’t give you specific examples of how they support struggling students
• Has a very narrow definition of success
• Feels unwelcoming to parents or dismissive of your questions
• Shows little evidence of celebrating the full range of human talents

Questions to Ask Yourself After the Visit

Once you’re home, reflect on these key points:

• Could I see my child thriving in this environment?
• Do the school’s values align with our family’s priorities?
• Will this school nurture my child’s whole self, not just their academic ability?
• Do I feel confident that the school would support my child through challenges?
• Would my child find their tribe here?

Remember: You’re Choosing a Community

Grammar schools aren’t just about academic excellence – they’re about joining a community that will shape your child’s teenage years and beyond. The relationships they build, the confidence they develop, and the interests they explore will matter long after the GCSE results are forgotten.

Your child earned their place through hard work and ability. Now it’s about finding the school where they’ll not just achieve, but flourish as a whole person. Trust your instincts, ask the tough questions, and remember that the right school for your child is the one where they’ll be happy, challenged, and supported to become their best self.

Every child deserves to feel confident, capable, and ready to succeed – and the right grammar school will make that their mission too.

Ready to support your child’s grammar school journey? At Academic Success, we help children build the confidence and skills they need to thrive. Get in touch to learn how we can support your family’s educational goals.

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