A Comprehensive Checklist for Visiting Schools During Your House Move

Researching School Options in Your New Area

One of the first and most crucial steps when moving house in the UK is researching the available school options in your new neighbourhood. This ensures your child receives quality education and a smooth transition. Use the checklist below to guide your research:

Tips for Identifying Suitable Schools

Check Catchment Areas: Most state schools in the UK prioritise children living within specific catchment zones. Verify which schools you are eligible for based on your new address.
Visit School Websites: Each school’s website provides valuable insight into their ethos, curriculum, extracurricular offerings, and recent achievements.
Speak to Local Parents: Neighbours and local community groups (often active on Facebook or WhatsApp) can offer honest opinions about schools in the area.

Using Local Authority Resources

Your local council’s website is a treasure trove for school admissions information, application deadlines, and admission criteria. The table below outlines key resources provided by local authorities:

Resource	Description	Where to Find
School Directory	Comprehensive list of all schools in the borough with contact details	Council’s Education Section
Admissions Policy	Details on how places are allocated and application process	Council Website/Application Portal
Council Map Tool	Interactive map showing school locations and catchment areas	Online via Council’s School Admissions Page
SEN Information	Guidance for families with special educational needs requirements	SEN Section of Council Website

Understanding Ofsted Reports

The Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted) inspects and rates schools across England. Reviewing Ofsted reports is an essential part of your checklist. Here’s how to make sense of them:

Overall Effectiveness Rating: Ranges from ‘Outstanding’ to ‘Inadequate’. Look for consistent ratings over several years.
Read Key Strengths and Areas for Improvement: These sections highlight what the school excels at and where it could do better.
User Comments: Parent View on the Ofsted site offers feedback from other parents, giving real-life perspectives.
Bearing Budget in Mind: If considering independent schools, check fees and scholarship opportunities alongside inspection outcomes.

DIY Budget Tip: Save time and money by using free online comparison tools such as Compare School Performance (DfE), which lets you compare exam results, pupil progress, and Ofsted ratings at a glance!

2. Arranging and Preparing for School Visits

When moving house in the UK, visiting potential schools is a crucial step to ensure you’re making the right choice for your child’s education. Proper planning can help you maximise your time and gather all the information you need. Here’s how to efficiently arrange and prepare for school visits.

Booking Your School Tours

Most UK schools offer both open days and private tours. It’s best to start by checking the school’s website or contacting their admissions office directly. Book in advance—especially during peak moving times, as slots can fill up quickly. If possible, try to visit during term time to see the school in full swing. However, open days are also valuable for meeting teachers and viewing facilities.

Type of Visit	Pros	Cons
Term-Time Tour	See daily routines, interact with pupils and staff	Limited access to some areas, busier atmosphere
Open Day	Meet key staff, access all facilities, receive info packs	Might feel staged, less insight into everyday life

Preparing Questions to Ask During Your Visit

To make the most of your visit, prepare a list of key questions. Don’t be shy—staff expect parents to ask detailed questions! Consider focusing on topics such as academic support, extracurricular activities, pastoral care, transition support for new pupils, and school values.

Sample Questions Checklist:

What is the typical class size?
How does the school support children settling in from another area?
What after-school clubs and activities are available?
How does the school communicate with parents?
Are there any additional costs or uniform requirements?

Practical Considerations for Your Visit

If you’re visiting several schools in one day, plan your route carefully using public transport or driving apps to avoid last-minute stress. Dress smart-casual—it shows respect but keeps you comfortable for walking around. Take notes or photos (with permission) so you can compare options later.

Budget-Saving Tip:

If youre travelling from outside town, consider off-peak train tickets or car-sharing with other parents doing similar visits. Many schools also have virtual tours available if travel costs are an issue.

3. Understanding Admissions and Catchment Areas

When visiting schools as part of your house move in the UK, it’s crucial to get familiar with how admissions work and what catchment areas mean for your child’s eligibility. The UK school system has specific criteria and deadlines that can vary between local authorities and individual schools. Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth transition:

Catchment Areas: What Are They?

Catchment areas are geographical zones determined by each school or local authority. Living inside a schools catchment area often gives your child a higher priority for admission, but it does not guarantee a place. Always check the latest catchment maps on the council or school website, as boundaries may shift year on year.

Admissions Criteria Explained

UK schools use a range of criteria to allocate places. The most common factors include:

Criteria	Description
Catchment Area	Preference is given to children living within the designated zone.
Siblings	If your child has siblings already at the school, they may be prioritised.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)	Children with SEN statements or EHCPs may get priority placement.
Faith-Based Criteria	Certain schools require evidence of faith practice or church attendance.
Distance from School	Those living closest to the school gates are often considered next after other priorities.

Key Application Deadlines

Tight deadlines are non-negotiable in the UK system. Missing them could mean losing out on your preferred choices. Below is a handy guide:

Stage	Date (England & Wales)
Primary School Applications (Reception)	Mid-January for entry in September
Secondary School Applications (Year 7)	End of October for entry the following September
Offer Day (Primary)	Mid-April
Offer Day (Secondary)	Early March

Tip: If you’re moving mid-year, look up “in-year admissions” which have rolling applications but depend on current availability.

Understanding these essentials can save you both time and stress. Make sure to ask each school about their unique criteria and confirm details with the local council during your visits—this DIY approach can help you avoid costly mistakes and secure the best possible outcome for your family.

4. Evaluating School Facilities and Environment

When you’re visiting potential schools during your house move, it’s crucial to assess the facilities and environment with a keen DIY eye—especially if you’re conscious of budget and want the best for your child without overspending. Here’s how to take a hands-on approach while ensuring your priorities stay front and centre.

DIY Tips for Inspecting Classrooms

Space & Lighting: Check if classrooms are bright, well-ventilated, and spacious enough for group activities.
Resources: Look for up-to-date books, computers, and teaching materials. Don’t hesitate to ask staff about tech resources or extra learning aids.
Cleanliness & Maintenance: Notice the state of desks, floors, and walls. Clean, well-kept rooms usually reflect the school’s overall standards.

Playgrounds & Outdoor Spaces

Safety First: Ensure playground equipment is in good condition and that areas are securely fenced off from busy roads.
Variety of Activities: Look for different zones (e.g., sports pitches, quiet corners) to suit all children’s needs.
Supervision: Ask about staff supervision during playtime to ensure children are well looked after.

Other Facilities to Consider

Canteen/Food Hall: Check cleanliness and ask about meal options—some schools allow packed lunches which could help manage costs.
Toilets & Hygiene: Inspect toilets for cleanliness and accessibility, especially for younger children or those with additional needs.
SEN Resources: If relevant, look at provision for Special Educational Needs (SEN), including sensory rooms or dedicated support staff.

Your Budget-Friendly Facility Checklist

Facility	What to Check	D.I.Y. Budget Tip
Classrooms	Light, space, resources	Avoid schools with hidden “resource fees” if possible
Playground	Equipment safety, variety of spaces	Packed lunches can save on meal costs if allowed
Canteen/Food Hall	Cleanliness, menu variety	Check if free school meals are available or apply for them online
SEN Facilities	Sensory rooms, support staff presence	If SEN provision is lacking, consider local charities offering extra support
Toilets/Hygiene Areas	Cleansiness, accessibility	N/A (essential but should be standard)

Pocket-Saving Pro Tip:

If you spot minor facility issues that don’t affect safety or learning (like scuffed paint), don’t rule out the school—many UK schools operate on tight budgets themselves. Focus on what truly matters to your family and use this checklist to compare each visit side by side. Your proactive approach will help you find the best fit without overspending!

5. Talking to Staff, Pupils, and Other Parents

One of the most valuable aspects of visiting schools during your house move is the opportunity to gather genuine feedback and local insights from people who know the school best: staff, pupils, and other parents. These conversations can reveal much more than official brochures or league tables. Here’s how you can make the most of these interactions to better understand a school’s culture, support systems, and community ties.

Suggestions for Meaningful Conversations

Staff: Ask about the school’s pastoral care, learning support, and enrichment activities. Enquire how they handle bullying and how they communicate with parents.
Pupils: With permission, chat with students about what they enjoy most at school, which clubs or societies are popular, and how approachable their teachers are.
Other Parents: Look for parents at drop-off or pick-up times, or ask if you can be introduced to a PTA member. Ask about their experiences with communication from the school, homework expectations, and parental involvement opportunities.

Key Questions to Ask

To Whom	Sample Questions
Staff	How does the school support children who need extra help? What’s your approach to discipline and rewards? How do you involve parents in school life?
Pupils	What do you like best about this school? Are there any fun clubs or trips? If you have a problem, who helps you?
Parents	How easy is it to get hold of teachers if needed? Is there a strong sense of community here? Would you recommend this school to others moving into the area?

Top Tips for Getting Honest Feedback

Be Friendly but Respectful: Introduce yourself as someone new to the area considering the school for your child.
Avoid Yes/No Questions: Open-ended questions encourage fuller answers and stories.
Observe Reactions: Sometimes what isn’t said is just as telling as what is said—watch for hesitation or enthusiasm.
Mingle at School Events: Attend open days or fairs to meet more parents in an informal setting.

The Value of Local Insight

No one understands the true atmosphere of a school better than those who experience it daily. While OFSTED reports and statistics matter, local perspectives offer context about everything from after-school clubs to friendships and even parking headaches. By engaging thoughtfully with staff, pupils, and parents during your visit, you’ll gain a clearer picture of whether the school—and its community—will be a good fit for your family as you settle into your new home.

6. Considering Transport and Accessibility

When selecting a new school during your house move, transport and accessibility play a vital role in ensuring daily routines run smoothly and safely. It’s not just about proximity; the journey to and from school can impact your child’s punctuality, wellbeing, and even family finances. Use the following checklist to thoroughly evaluate all available transport options and ensure you’re making a practical choice that suits your family’s needs and budget.

Checklist for Evaluating School Transport Links

Transport Option	Checklist Points	Notes/Findings
Walking Routes	Are safe pavements available? Is there adequate street lighting? What is the estimated walking time? Are there any busy roads or crossings? Is the route suitable in all weather conditions?
Cycling Options	Are there designated cycle lanes? Is secure bike storage provided at school? Is the route traffic-heavy or calm? Are helmets and locks required by the school?
Public Transport (Bus/Train)	How frequent are services during school hours? Where are the nearest stops/stations? Are student travel discounts available? What is the total commute time including transfers? Is the service reliable in bad weather or during strikes?
School Bus Services	Does the school offer a dedicated bus service? Where are the pick-up/drop-off points located? What are the costs involved per term/year? How long is the journey compared to other options? Is there adult supervision on board?

Budget-Friendly Tips for School Commutes

If possible, choose a home within walking or cycling distance to save on daily travel costs.
Check local council websites for subsidised travel passes or free transport schemes for eligible students.
Consider carpooling with neighbours to share fuel expenses and reduce traffic congestion around schools.
If using public transport, invest in season tickets or family travel cards for additional savings.

Avoid Surprises: Trial Runs Matter!

Before finalising your decision, it’s wise to do a trial school run during peak times. This will help you gauge actual journey lengths, spot any safety issues, and ensure your chosen route works for everyone involved. Factoring in transport and accessibility now can save you time, stress, and money once you’ve settled into your new home.