Your school visit guide

It can be easy to forget what you wanted to ask once you’re actually walking through a school, so it helps to have a few simple questions ready.

You might like to ask:

How do you help new children settle into school in the first few weeks?
How do teachers build relationships and get to know each child?
How do you share information about children’s learning and progress with parents?
What does communication with whānau look like day to day?
What does a typical transition into school look like? Do you offer transition visits before starting?
How many visits do children usually have before they start school?
How do you support children who may take a little longer to settle?
How do you support children’s emotional wellbeing at school?
What systems do you have in place to help children with big feelings or friendships?

While you’re there, it’s also worth observing a few things:

How warmly staff greet tamariki as they arrive or move around the school
How children interact with teachers and each other
Whether the school feels calm, welcoming, and organised.

There’s no such thing as a “perfect” school, but there will be schools that feel like a better fit for your child and family. Trust your instincts, ask questions, and remember that you know your child best.

What to look for on a school visit

Beyond the brochures and websites, school visits give you a real-life picture of how a school feels day to day. These prompts can help you notice the things that matter most for your child.

The learning environment

Classrooms feel calm, welcoming, and organised.
Children are engaged in learning, with a mix of play, hands-on activities, and quiet work.
Student work is displayed in a way that celebrates effort and progress.

Relationships and wellbeing

Teachers speak to children with warmth and respect.
Children seem comfortable asking for help or sharing ideas.
You notice positive behaviour being encouraged and supported.

School culture and values

The school’s values are visible in classrooms and shared spaces.
You see diversity reflected in books, displays, and resources.
Staff talk about partnership with whānau and the wider community.