Autumn is the season for Open Days, where families can visit schools to assess whether they are the right fit for their child.
Attending an open day is a great way to learn about the school culture and community, discover more about the academic offering, and be inspired by what is on offer at that particular school.
To get the most from an open event, it is best to read up on the school and prepare questions to ask on the day.
With many years of experience hosting open days, we are well-versed in the common questions families ask. So, to help you through this busy school season, we have put together a set of ten questions to ensure you gain all the information you need to decide which school is best for you.
Admissions Process
Q. When is the best time of year to apply?
Every independent school has its own application process and timeline, so it is wise to ask early on when the school accepts applications. Doing so can help you to prepare in advance and manage any necessary documentation, such as overseas visas.
For Merchiston’s part, our admissions team is always available to answer any questions you may have about applications and are present during open days for an in-person chat.
- What kind of assessments are necessary upon applying?
Understanding the application process, including any entrance assessments or interviews, will give you a clear idea of what is expected of your child when joining the school. Such assessment processes also provide an insight into how the school evaluates your child’s unique talents and potential.
At Merchiston, we run entrance assessments throughout the year. As well as age-specific examinations, an interview with the Headmaster will also take place. This format is designed to put your son at ease, give him the opportunity to shine and let us learn as much about him as possible.
School Life and Ethos
Q. What is the school’s ethos, and how is it reflected in daily life?
A school’s ethos shapes its approach to education and student well-being. At Merchiston, our ethos is exemplified through core values: building strong foundations; committing to our community; readying for life; and seizing opportunities.
For example, our house system is designed to foster positive relationships between different year groups to strengthen our school community, while also offering boys greater responsibility as they mature.
Q. What is the school’s approach to student welfare?
A nurturing and supportive environment is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a school for your child. Pastoral care encompasses physical and emotional welfare, and every school will have their own approach to this care.
It is crucial that your child feels welcome, supported and respected when at school, and knows who they can turn to should they need additional support. Understanding the policies and student welfare procedures will instil you with greater reassurance and confidence in your child’s safety when at school.
Leaver Destinations and Available Feedback
Q. What career and university support is available?
Even if your child is just beginning in P1, it is a good idea to get a sense of the leaver destinations and career support available to Sixth Form pupils.
Here at Merchiston, we are proud to say that each year, approximately 93% of our leavers go on to attend their 1st choice university. How do we achieve this? Through our personalised approach which prioritises helping each student achieve their personal best. It is important to enrol your child at a school where you align with their approach to supporting your child with their post-school decisions.
Q. What are the parent and student satisfaction rates?
Reviewing parent testimonials and school satisfaction rates gives you a good sense of the school culture and teaching quality.
During Merchiston open days, parents of current and former students are on site to chat with visitors about all aspects of the school experience. From the process of moving your child into their first school boarding house to the level of teacher support available, and how students are prepared for exams, speaking to people who have gone through it first-hand with their child is invaluable.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
Q. What sports and extracurricular activities are offered?
Academics and wellbeing are just two elements of a child’s school experience – discovering new interests and embracing different hobbies are equally important to a young person’s personal development.
When attending an open day, ask about the range of extra-curricular activities on offer and how these clubs are facilitated.
Whether it be a chess club, writing group or arts programme, it is wise to establish how the school will contribute to your child’s life beyond the classroom.
Q. What facilities are available to students?
Additional spaces beyond classrooms such as access to auditoriums for performance practice, or hours available for practice on tennis courts will enhance your child’s school experience. Be sure to ask which year groups have access to the facilities on offer and if the facilities are all within school grounds or if there is additional travel involved.
Merchiston has invested in the best facilities to ensure students have access to premium resources. One example of this is our Tennis Academy, a purpose-built Tennis Dome where training sessions and matches can take place. Athletes also have access to a first-class gym facility to work on their strength and mobility, and the support of expert trainers.
Q. Does the school offer wraparound care and holiday clubs?
For many families with multiple obligations and commitments, having additional support outside of the core school hours is extremely helpful.
Primarily a boarding school, Merchiston differs from day schools in that all of our after-school activities are included and come at no extra cost. This allows students to engage in extra-curricular activities and pursue different interests while parents may be required to work late.
Q. How does the school meet specific dietary preferences?
If your child has a particular allergy or dietary requirement, questions about the school’s menu will be a top priority. An open day is a good time to speak to staff about how they can accommodate your child’s needs, without singling them out from their friends.
Equally important is the quality and variety of food available to students. Ask about the caterers used by the school and whether you can see a sample menu.
At Merchiston, we appreciate the importance of fuelling our students’ minds and bodies. Our catering partners produce seasonal, nutritious menus that are nutrient-dense and – judging by the number of empty plates each day – very tasty!
Why not visit our next Open Day on Saturday 31 October 2026? Register here.