Choosing the right secondary school is a milestone moment for both parents and children. At Start-Rite, we understand how important it is to feel confident in your decision when the time comes to apply for high school. Just as we’re experts in fitted footwear and foot health, we are a partner for parents through every step of the school journey, including the big leap to secondary education.
There’s no single formula for choosing the perfect school. Every child is different, and every school offers a unique environment. The key is to find a place where your child can thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
Below, we’ve outlined some of the most important factors to consider when comparing high schools. These guidelines can help you to make a well-rounded, informed decision that suits you and your child’s needs and personality.
Catchment areas are often one of the first things parents look into. Most schools prioritise places based on proximity, so where you live can have a big impact on your options. Catchment maps are usually available via your local authority website, or you can contact the school directly for guidance.
Some schools also take into account whether a child has a sibling already attending. This can sometimes influence priority, depending on the admissions criteria, so it’s always worth checking the details.
Once you’ve explored the catchment area, it’s helpful to think about how your child will get to and from school each day. Is public transport reliable? Does the school offer a bus service and how much is it? Will you need to drive, and if so, what does that mean for your daily routine?
If the school is close by, walking might be an option. Could your child walk confidently on their own, or perhaps with a group of friends, especially during those early weeks when everything feels new? A good tip is to walk the route together ahead of time so it becomes familiar. Cycling is another possibility, so check whether there are safe cycle paths or routes nearby, and a secure place to store bikes at the school.
These everyday practicalities make a big difference. Looking into travel time, cost and convenience early on can help you plan ahead with confidence.
Ofsted reports and exam results can give you a snapshot of the quality of education and care. They’re publicly available and can be helpful indicators of teaching standards and student achievement. But it's important to remember, they only show part of the picture.
If a school hasn’t met Ofsted’s expectations, don’t let that be the final word. Reach out to the school and ask questions - they may have faced challenges that they’re actively addressing, or there might be a strong plan in place for improvement.
Visiting the school yourself is one of the most powerful ways to get a feel for its true character. Open days offer the chance to explore the space, observe how pupils and staff interact, and give you a chance to ask questions about how the school supports children academically, emotionally and socially. Watch how students engage with their teachers - does it feel respectful, confident and caring?
Trust your instincts! If a school feels welcoming and well-organised, that’s often a good sign.
Talking about social opportunities, high school isn’t just about lessons! It’s about expanding horizons, discovering new passions, building confidence and making new friends with like-minded people. That’s where extra-curricular activities come in. These are clubs, groups and programmes offered outside regular classroom teaching. Some clubs take place during lunchtime, while others are held after school.
From traditional team sports like football and netball, to creative clubs for music, drama and art, there’s usually something for everyone. Many schools hold an annual school production, or there are other options like coding and gaming, chess club, choir group, debating, fundraising and eco groups - giving children the chance to explore a wide variety of interests well beyond the curriculum.
Remember, no two schools offer the same extra-curricular schedule so ask what activities are available. They might even publish a timetable, so you can show your child the options and see what might spark their interest.
These opportunities help children grow in confidence, build skills they might not learn in the classroom, make new friends and enjoy a more rounded and fulfilling school experience. Plus, they can be helpful for parents in terms of lowering childcare costs and fitting in around work or other commitments.
If your child has special educational needs (SEN), it’s important to explore how each school supports individual requirements. Some schools offer tailored learning plans, specialist facilities or dedicated SEN teams. Don’t be shy; ask if you can meet the SEN lead or key support staff in person. It’s a great way to build a relationship early on, and most schools welcome proactive parents.
Additionally, be sure to ask whether the school offers an orientation or transition day, especially for children who might benefit from spending some extra time there before the term begins. These relaxed, low-pressure sessions are designed to help pupils get to know their new surroundings and ease into the experience at their own pace. If your child is moving from a smaller school to a larger one, or is feeling particularly anxious or unsettled, a familiarisation session could make a real difference.
Support isn’t only for children with formal diagnoses. Life can throw curveballs at any child: illness, grief, anxiety and bullying are just a few examples. So, it’s also wise to ask how the school approaches pastoral care and emotional wellbeing. A strong support system makes all the difference when your child needs it most.
Uniform policies, equipment lists and behavioural expectations vary widely between schools. Some are more flexible, while others have strict rules that can affect how easy and affordable it is to prepare your child for the school day.
For example, a school with a relaxed uniform policy may allow more choice in footwear, while others require specific styles. At Start-Rite, we offer a wide range of school shoes designed to meet different dress codes, always prioritising comfort, durability and foot health.
To help you prepare, we’ve created a handy checklist of what children typically need for secondary school. You can find it on our blog: What do you need for secondary school?
Choosing a secondary school is a personal journey. It’s about finding the right fit, not just academically, but emotionally and practically too. By considering catchment areas, performance data, extra-curricular options, support systems and policies, you’ll be better equipped to make a confident, well-informed choice for you and your child.
