Top Questions to Ask at a Prep School Open Day

Choosing the right prep school for your child is an important decision. Open mornings and tours play a vital role in helping families gain a true sense of a school’s spirit, values and community. These visits allow you to meet the people behind the school, see learning in action and ask the questions that matter most to you.

Asking thoughtful, well‑considered questions gives you a deeper understanding of a school’s ethos and whether it aligns with your child’s needs, personality, and interests. It also offers valuable insight into how the school will support your child to develop and excel—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Below are our top five questions we recommend asking during your visit:

1. How is academic progress and success measured?

Most parents want reassurance that a school is committed to academic excellence. Asking how progress is tracked and how this information is shared with families can reveal a great deal about a school’s attitude to teaching and learning, as well as the level of support provided to pupils. This question is especially helpful if you are considering a transition into a senior school in the future.

At Belmont, as highlighted in our recent Good Schools Guide Report, the “cool to be clever” mindset continues to gain momentum. This is reflected in our academically rigorous yet engaging curriculum, designed to inspire curiosity and foster a love of learning.

2. What co-curricular activities are on offer?

Learning does not stop at the classroom door. A rich and varied co-curricular programme provides children with opportunities to try new things, build confidence, discover passions, develop teamwork skills and step outside their comfort zone. Look for a wide range of activities that cater to different personalities and interests—whether that’s drama, sport, music, computing, STEM clubs or outdoor pursuits.

At Belmont, we are especially proud of our extensive co-curricular offering, which was recognised as a “significant strength” in our ISI Report. With over 100 clubs running at lunchtime or after school each week, there is truly something for every child.

3. What is your approach to wellbeing and pastoral support?

A child’s happiness, safety and wellbeing should always be at the heart of school life. When visiting, explore how the school supports pupils’ emotional and physical welfare, and ask about the roles of Form Tutors, Heads of Year or House systems. A strong pastoral structure ensures that every child feels known, cared for and confident enough to flourish.

At Belmont, pastoral care underpins everything we do. Our core values—Be Kind, Be Brave, Be You—guide our approach and are woven into daily school life.

4. What are the typical future destinations of pupils?

Understanding where pupils move on to after prep school can give you a sense of academic preparation, breadth of opportunity and how well the school knows and supports children through the transition process. Ask about scholarship success, common senior school destinations, and how pupils are guided through the next steps of their educational journey.

5. What do current pupils say about the school?

If you have the chance to speak with pupils during your visit, this can provide some of the most valuable insight of all. Children are often refreshingly honest and can share what day‑to‑day life genuinely feels like.

Here are a few questions you might ask them:

• What do you enjoy most about the school?
• Do you feel challenged and supported in your learning?
• Which co-curricular clubs or activities are your favourites?

Hearing directly from pupils offers a true snapshot of school culture—something no prospectus or website can fully capture.