Open Days at schools are essential events for families seeking the ideal educational institution for their children. These sessions provide an opportunity to explore the facilities, meet teaching staff, and understand the school’s educational philosophy.
Choosing the right school is a crucial decision, and attending an Open Day at a private school accredited by Best Schools in Spain (BSS) can make all the difference. Below, we offer practical advice to help you make the most of these visits and ensure that you choose the school that best meets your family’s needs.
What Are Open Days and Why Are They Important?
Open Days at schools are events organised by private institutions to allow families to experience their learning environment, educational programmes, and core values.
During these visits, parents can tour the campus, attend presentations by school leaders, and ask questions about the educational approach. This is a unique opportunity to assess whether the school aligns with your child’s expectations and needs.
At BSS private schools, these events are particularly valuable, as they allow families to gain first-hand insight into the high standards of education and academic excellence that distinguish these institutions.
Tips for Making the Most of School Open Days
1. Preparing for Your Visit
Before attending an Open Day, it is important to do some groundwork:
- Research the school: Visit its website, explore its educational philosophy, curriculum, language offerings, and extracurricular activities. This will help you better understand what to expect and what questions to ask during your visit.
- Identify your priorities: Are you looking for an international school? Is a bilingual programme important? Do you prioritise arts and sports activities? Defining your key criteria will help you determine if the school aligns with your family’s expectations.
- Prepare a list of questions: Open Days provide an opportunity to speak with school leaders, teachers, and students. Having prepared questions will help you gather relevant information and compare different institutions effectively.
2. What to Observe During an Open Day
Once at the Open Day, pay close attention to the following aspects:
- Facilities and resources: Does the school have well-maintained, spacious, and stimulating learning environments? Observe the classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and sports areas.
- School atmosphere: Observe the interactions between teachers and students. A welcoming and respectful environment is key to a child’s well-being.
- Teaching methodology: Ask about the school’s teaching approach and whether it offers international programmes such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), A-Levels, or a Montessori framework.
- Technology in the classroom: How does the school integrate technology into learning? Check whether digital tools are available and if responsible technology use is encouraged.
- Extracurricular activities: A well-rounded school should offer a variety of sports, arts, and cultural activities to complement students’ development.
3. Key Questions to Ask During Your Visit
To gain valuable insights, consider asking the following questions:
- What is the school’s educational approach?
- Which languages are taught, and to what proficiency level?
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- What is the average class size?
- What support is available for students with special educational needs?
- What types of extracurricular activities does the school offer?
- What are the admission criteria and application deadlines?
Asking these questions will help you better understand the school’s environment and evaluate whether it is the right place for your child’s growth and development.
Evaluating Your Visit After the Open Day
After attending an Open Day, take some time to reflect on your experience:
- Review your notes and materials: If you have attended multiple Open Days, comparing information will help with your decision-making process.
- Talk to your child: If they joined the visit, their impressions are essential. Ask them how they felt and whether they can see themselves studying there.
- Compare strengths and weaknesses: Consider which school best meets the priorities you set before the visit.
Upcoming Open Days at BSS Schools
If you are searching for the right school for your child, attending an Open Day is an excellent opportunity to explore the educational approach, facilities, and teaching methods. Below are the upcoming Open Days at BSS schools, where you can obtain first-hand information and address any queries.
March 2025
- King’s College Chamartín – 28 March, 15:00h (12 months to 7 years) – Register here
- King’s College La Moraleja – (12 months to 16 years) – Register here
- Highlands School Los Fresnos (Boadilla del Monte) – 28 March, 9:30h – Register here
- Colegio Arcángel International School (Madrid) – 30 March, 10:00h – Register here
- Colegio Brains Arturo Soria – 17, 24 and 31 March, 10:00h – Register here
- Colegio SEK International School El Castillo – 29 March, 10:00h – Register here
- Colegio Mirabal International School – 15 March, 10:30h – Register here
- Colegio Británico de Aragón – from 10 till 14 March, 09:30 – 11:00h – Register here
- San Patricio Serrano – 22 March, 10:00h (Early Years and Primary) – Register here
- San Patricio La Moraleja – 28 March, 10:00h (Early Years and Primary) – Register here
- Colegio Hastings School (Británico, Madrid) – 26 March, 18:00 – 19:30h – Register here
Abril 2025
- King’s College Alicante – 7 April, 16:15h (Sixth Form) – Register here
- Colegio Internacional SEK Santa Isabel – 5 April, 10:00h – Register here
Mayo 2025
- Colegio Internacional SEK Ciudalcampo – 10 May, 10:00h – Register here
If you are interested in attending one of these events, we recommend booking your place in advance using the links provided or by contacting the school directly. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience first-hand the excellence of BSS schools!
Why Attend an Open Day at a BSS School?
Open Days at schools provide an invaluable opportunity to explore institutions in depth and ensure they meet your family’s expectations. At Best Schools in Spain (BSS), key pillars include educational excellence, innovative teaching, and holistic student development.
If you are in the process of selecting a school, attending an Open Day at a BSS-accredited institution allows you to discover its methodology, values, and learning environment first-hand. Visit the school’s website for details on upcoming Open Days and registration procedures. Take advantage of this opportunity to make an informed decision and choose the best education for your child’s future.
