Heads You Win

Julie Robinson - Vinehall School

I'd advise parents to think about what they want from a school before they visit and then to write down what they did and didn't like afterwards. It's a big decision and you want to get it right. Look at the prospectus and website, read the latest ISI report before speaking to the head as it will give you a more objective overview of the school's success. If you are interested in boarding, look at a recent Ofsted report. Personally, I don't think it's a good idea to take your child on the first visit: the most important thing is to go round on an ordinary school day and then sit down with the head to talk through the things that are important to you. The head is more important in a prep school because they shape the atmosphere. At a senior school, the housemasters have a more immediate effect on the students. Ask the head what they would do for your child. You want them to talk about happiness and good results but you also want them to bring out the best in your child. Discuss the fee structure: what are the true costs involved? Are fees all inclusive or will trips and extra-curricular classes be added? What are the likely fee increases over the next five years?

Going round the school, observe the relationships between the children and all the staff. You are looking for a happy and positive relationship between the students and the teachers. Talk to the children and ask what the school is like and if the food is good. For me, contented and confident children are what I'd want before I asked about results – which will come with happy students.

Most Wealden schools have great facilities but I'd look to see how well maintained they are as it will indicate financial stability. Plus, a successful school should have comfortably full classrooms. An empty classroom may indicate that the school is failing to attract pupils. I'd also want to know what the weekend programme is for boarders. Are there activities; time for prep; social events; a proper routine; regular live-in staff? I'd ask for the names of boarding parents that I could speak to.

Then, when I am happy with my choice and I have checked with the registrar that there is space for my child, I would take my child around on an open day to see how they react.

Vinehall School is a co-educational day and boarding school for 2 to 13 year olds. www.vinehall.info