As a parent, deciding on the right primary school for your child can feel overwhelming. I remember standing outside a school gate, not knowing what to expect from our first open house visit. Yet, these sessions are one of the best ways to experience a school's environment, values, and culture firsthand. If you're gearing up for the 2025 Primary 1 registration, school open houses are your golden opportunity. For more information on P1 registration, check the official MOE guide.
Why Attend a Primary School Open House?
Open houses offer a glimpse into a school’s environment, teaching philosophy, and co-curricular activities (CCAs). You'll have the chance to meet the principal, speak with teachers, tour classrooms, and observe how students interact. This firsthand exposure is invaluable in helping parents assess school fit beyond rankings or online reviews.
Questions to Ask During the Visit
Come prepared with a list of questions. Ask about class sizes, language programs, CCAs, discipline policies, and how the school supports students with different learning needs. For inspiration, refer to this parent discussion thread on KiasuParents about what to ask at open houses.
Compare School Cultures and Strengths
Every school has a unique culture. Some emphasize academics and discipline, while others highlight holistic development, values education, or bilingualism. Take note of how each school presents itself during the visit, and whether their approach aligns with your child’s needs and personality.
Keep Track of Dates and Book Early
Open houses tend to be held between March and May, with some schools requiring pre-registration. Bookmark the MOE SchoolFinder tool and keep tabs on school websites or social media pages for announcements. Slots can fill up quickly, especially for popular schools.
Bring Your Child Along
Involving your child in the visit allows them to get a feel for the school and share their impressions. Their comfort level with the environment is just as important as yours. Some open houses include kid-friendly activities or sample lessons to help them engage meaningfully.
Dynamic Tip: Take Photos and Notes
After visiting several schools, it's easy to forget which one had the expansive library or which principal mentioned coding classes for P1s. Use your phone to jot down impressions and snap non-intrusive photos (where allowed) to compare later. Consider using a school visit checklist like the one from Families for Life.
Final Thoughts
Primary school open houses are more than campus tours—they're your window into a community where your child will spend the next six years. Trust your instincts, prepare your questions, and compare your experiences thoughtfully. For a broader look at choosing the right school, check out this helpful MOE guide on selecting a school that fits your child’s profile.