Eastlife Spring 2021

A
Virtual
World
What is the future of
school open days?
It’s safe to say lockdowns and COVID restrictions have propelled
education into a new realm. Online classes and home-schooling
have tested families across the country. But it’s not just everyday
teaching causing stress, concerned parents are at a loss on how
to choose a school for their child when they are unable to visit.
Schools are quickly adapting to make the process as simple as
possible for parents and potential students. Like many events,
open days and evenings are moving online. Though it may be
unconventional, schools such as Impington International College
in Cambridge, are urging parents to participate.
Vice Principal, Johanna Sale, said: “My main piece of advice for
parents is to approach virtual events as though they are face to
face events. Of course, one of the benefits of a virtual event is that
you can watch the recorded sessions on-demand, but this is no
substitute for attending the live event because you will be relying
on other people to ask the questions that you want answered.
Due to life behind screens, it’s more important than ever to get
involved in the conversations and actively ask the questions that
you want to know.”
It is key for parents to have a list of questions ready to ask during a
Q&A session once the presentation is over. If your question hasn’t
been answered, voice your query. Grades are a good indication
of a school’s performance, but care and support are essential for
a child’s wellbeing too.
Sale continued: “We would encourage any prospective parent
and their children to focus on speaking to the students at the
open events they are attending. Delve into the students’ minds, as
they will have all of the key information that sometimes teachers
can’t provide.”
If you’re still undecided on a school, contact administrations
directly to see if a private viewing can be arranged following
government safety guidelines and restrictions.
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