Choosing a Primary School – what parents look for

What really matters to parents when choosing a Primary School?

Choosing a Primary School can be a daunting task for parents and carers. And, whilst you’ll already be aware of the common criteria; Ofsted ratings, attainment records, extra-curricular activities, there are some other factors to consider too.

Here we’ll share a few extra areas you can focus on to showcase what makes your Primary School unique.

Prioritise point of entry areas

Most parents will be thinking about their child’s current stage of development when choosing a Primary School. So, your EYFS environment can actually be key to their decision-making process.

Plentiful opportunities to play will be at the top of the agenda for many parents when prioritising a Primary School for their early years child.

Do you offer an enabling indoor and outdoor space for EYFS pupils? It’s worth focusing on this area to make it as rich and varied as possible for little ones, so that they can play and explore safely to develop their curiosity and independence.

Visual stimulation can support this too. It shows parents that you are committed to making a fun and inviting area for their children to develop and grow. If your pupils start their journey with you in Juniors, you can utilise the visual environment to communicate who you are and what you are about to parents.

Walk the walk

It’s powerful for parents to witness, first-hand, how your teachers model actions that encourage inclusion, tolerance and good behaviour within your school.

In addition to behaviours, you can also use visual prompts to reflect the kind of environment and culture your school promotes.

For example;

• use imagery that is representative of people from all backgrounds, abilities and walks of life
• showcase key aspects of your curriculum that make it clear yours is a school that evolves alongside changes in society
• offer an environment in which pupils encouraged to share their ideas, beliefs and opinions, freely and without judgement

Many parents are looking for a welcoming environment for their child, where authentic actions over-ride admin. Visual cues can communicate your culture and ethos in a way that words simply can’t achieve.

Value your values

Your school values matter. In fact, for parents choosing a Primary School, your values might be more important than your academic record or array of extra-curriculars.

We’ve talked before about how your school values and character education framework should underpin all you do. And it’s worth sharing and reinforcing your values wherever you can.

Many schools even use the walls of their school building to remind pupils of the values they’re expected to uphold. A values themed design can work really well in your school hall, reception area or corridors.

Positive learning environment

Over and above all other factors, most parents simply want their children to be happy.

So, when choosing a Primary School, they may focus on the attitudes of your staff, the general disposition of pupils and the quality of their surroundings.

With this in mind, you can create a positive learning environment with a few simple updates to your school building.

For example,

• refresh your welcome walls, signage and reception area
• transform dull corridors and stairwells into learning opportunities
• use inspirational quotes and images to lift spirits and boost morale
• improve wellbeing by introducing plants, greenery and nature themed art to the classroom

Wall Art for schools

Our bespoke Wall Art for Primary Schools can enhance your learning environment and help you showcase what makes your school really unique.

We know that first impressions count when parents are choosing a Primary School. In fact, it takes less than 10 seconds for someone to form a first impression, based on appearances alone.

So, it’s worth considering how to capture the attention of prospective parents in new and interesting ways. We can help!

Get in touch to arrange a free, Covid-safe site visit from our team. We’ll pop in to chat about your school improvement goals and give suggestions on how to use your available space for best effect.

Take a look at our Case Studies to see more examples of our work in action. Or check out the latest Ideas Book for general inspiration and tips.