👀 Could I see myself here?

🎓Learning & subjects

• Do they offer the subjects or specialisations I'm interested in?
• Did any subjects or courses make me think, “I'd actually like to do that”?
• How much choice would I have over what I study?
• What does a normal school week look like?
• How much homework or studying do students usually have?
• Does the way they teach sound like it would suit me?
• What happens if I struggle with a subject?
• Are there opportunities beyond normal lessons — projects, exchanges, trips, clubs, sport, music, etc.?

🙂The people & atmosphere

• Do the students seem happy and comfortable here?
• How do students and teachers talk to each other?
• Do teachers seem approachable?
• Does the atmosphere feel friendly, competitive, relaxed, serious — or something else?
• Do I think I could find people here I'd get along with?
• Can I imagine being myself here?
• Would I feel comfortable asking for help?
• What do the current students say they like least about the school?

💡 That last question is particularly useful. With “Do you like it here?”, people usually say “yes.” Asking a student “What's the worst thing about going here?” tends to reveal much more.

🏫Look around

• Do I like the classrooms and learning spaces?
• Where do students spend breaks and lunchtime?
• Is there somewhere to sit, study or hang out?
• What are the library, sports and other facilities like?
• Does the school feel overcrowded?
• What's the food/cafeteria situation?
• Does the building feel like somewhere I'd be okay spending most of my week?

🚆Everyday life

• How long would my journey be?
• What time would I need to leave home each morning?
• How late might I get home?
• Could I realistically do this journey every day?
• Would I still have time for friends, hobbies, sport or a part-time job?
• Are there extra costs I need to know about?

🔭Where could it take me?

• What do students usually do after graduating?
• Does this school keep open the options I might want later?
• If I change my mind about my direction, what choices would I have?
• Can I talk to students doing the subjects/profile I'm considering?