A guide for parents and daughters: Tips for getting the most out of a school open day

Choosing the right school for your daughter is a significant decision, and attending an open day is one of the best ways to gather all the information you need. At St Mary’s School, Cambridge, we believe that a well-informed choice can make all the difference in shaping a girl’s future. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together five top tips to guide you through the open day experience.

If you haven’t already, Register for one of our upcoming Open Days

1. Prepare your questions in advance

Before the open day, sit down with your daughter and think about the aspects that matter most to your family. Consider academic interests, extra-curricular activities, school values, and even boarding options if that’s on your radar. A few useful questions might include:

• How does the school support students’ individual learning styles?
• What opportunities exist for leadership and personal development?
• How does the school nurture confidence and independence in girls?
• What are the options for extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and clubs?

Having a prepared list of questions ensures you get answers to your most important concerns and gives you a structured way to compare schools.

2. Observe the school environment and culture

As you tour the school, take the time to observe the environment. Does it feel welcoming and supportive? Are the classrooms well-equipped and conducive to learning? Notice how students and teachers interact—are the students engaged and confident? Do the teachers seem approachable and passionate about their subjects?

Pay attention to the culture and ethos of the school, as this will play a crucial role in your daughter’s experience. At St Mary’s, for example, we are proud of our inspiring and inclusive atmosphere, where girls are encouraged to take risks, embrace curiosity, and grow into confident young women.

Be sure to ask yourself whether the school’s values align with what you envision for your daughter’s education and personal development.

3. Talk to students and teachers

While presentations and tours are helpful, the real insights often come from speaking with the people who make up the school community—students, teachers and staff. Encourage your daughter to ask students about their day-to-day experience:

• How do they find the balance between academics and extra-curriculars?
• What is the support like from teachers and peers?
• How are friendships and social development opportunities fostered?

Likewise, talking to teachers can give you a deeper understanding of the school’s approach to teaching and learning. Ask them about how they engage students, support individual growth, and tailor their teaching to help each girl excel.

4. Explore opportunities beyond the classroom

A well-rounded education is focused on a holistic learning approach. Make sure to ask about opportunities for your daughter to develop her skills and passions outside of the classroom. This includes:

• Sports teams, creative arts, music, and drama programmes
• Community service, charity involvement, and leadership roles
• Special programmes like outdoor learning, STEM initiatives, or school trips abroad

At St Mary’s, we offer a wide range of activities designed to help girls flourish in all aspects of their lives, building not just academic skills but also character, resilience, and leadership. Make sure to get a sense of how the school will help your daughter explore their talents and interests.

5. Ask about pastoral care and student wellbeing

Your daughter’s well-being is just as important as her academic success, so it’s important to understand how the school prioritises pastoral and wellbeing.

• What support systems are in place for students who need emotional or academic guidance?
• How does the school handle transitions, such as moving into Senior School or Sixth Form?
• How does the school encourage a healthy balance between work and play?

At St Mary’s, we believe that happy, supported students are the ones who thrive, and we work hard to create an environment where girls feel valued and heard. Assess how well the school can meet your daughter’s emotional, social and personal needs.

We look forward to welcoming you to our upcoming open days and showing you how St Mary’s School, Cambridge, can help your daughter reach her full potential. If you are yet to register your place, click here.