Ghosts, pumpkins and ghouls – it’s time to choose your schools!
For many young people, October 31st is all about Halloween and trick-or-treating. However, for parents with children set to move up to secondary school next September, the end of October marks the deadline to apply for school places in Sutton.
“This is a really important time for families, and they need to take time to make the right decision for their child,” said Chris McNab, the new headteacher at Overton Grange School.
He added: “But, before deciding which schools to apply for, you really ought to try to visit the schools you are particularly interested in.
“There are often open events, but if you’re unable to attend, most local schools will be happy to show you around during a school day. Just call the school and make an appointment.”
Although it is hoped that most children are given a place at their parents’ first choice school, this is not always possible if there are more applications for a school than there are places available.
For example, Sutton Council has an over subscription system and strongly advises families to provide preferences for six different secondary schools, they say this provides families with the best chance of getting their child into a school of their choice.
It is important that you apply by the deadline of 31 October 2024. Applying after this deadline may significantly affect what’s offered.
Mr McNabs’s top five tips for choosing a school for your child:
- Visit as many schools as you can, make sure you get a good look around and go prepared with questions – what did the school feel like?
- When you’ve made a shortlist, visit the school during a ‘normal; school day. Most schools will welcome you and offer you a tour.
- Speak to the staff, schools are about people – ask as many questions as you need to, it’s a big decision and you need to make sure that you are well informed.
- Speak with parents who already have children at the schools you are interested in.
- Use other sources of information: Look at the school’s website – This will contain a wealth of information concerning not only student outcomes but also key news/events that will provide an understanding of the school ethos.
And, the school’s most recent Ofsted report, not just the headline judgement, will also help you to identify many of the school’s strengths.
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