Choosing a primary school is one of the biggest decisions a parent can make. The early years are vital, not just for laying the foundation for academic progress, but also instilling the emotional, social, and cognitive skills that last a lifetime. With so many options available - state, independent, faith, co-ed, single-sex - knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. 

Blackheath High School’s Head of Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), Lizie Riordan, shares some guidance on choosing the right school for your child. 

 

1. Look beyond results to the whole learning experience 

It can be really tempting to base your decision on the school’s academic outcomes - but they’re only one part of the picture. It is really important to visit schools, see classroom teaching in action, and talk to teachers and pupils. Do the children seem engaged and happy? Do the lessons feel lively, interesting and well structured? What is happening outside of lessons? 

A great primary school should build strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, but it should also nurture vital life skills like creativity, collaboration, risk taking and independence.  

At Blackheath High Junior School, for example, specialist teaching from an early age allows pupils to become confident in subjects such as Science, French, Music and Art long before they reach secondary level. 

 

2. Prioritise pastoral care - the heart of any good school 

Your child will learn best when they feel understood, supported and known as an individual. This isn’t just about basic behaviour and safeguarding – although these are vital – but it is also about creating a place where children feel heard and valued. 

When visiting schools, you should be able to clearly see warm, genuine relationships between pupils and teachers, clear systems for wellbeing support and a visible culture of kindness, respect and emotional safety. It is this backdrop of security and consistency that enables children to develop resilience, confidence and the ability to take intellectual risks - all vital for success later on. 

Wellbeing is fundamental at Blackheath High Junior School. It is not just a buzzword – it provides the framework for everything we do, and forms the heart of our ethos and approach. We understand that happy pupils are happy learners, and that the foundations we lay now for positive mental and physical health will last a lifetime. 

 

3. Consider the school’s approach to co-curricular opportunities 

A broad, diverse co-curricular programme is one of the clearest indicators of a school that sees your child as a whole person. Activities such as sport, music, drama, coding, debating, Forest School and trips help children discover new interests and build essential skills for the future. 

When visiting the school, ask about the variety of clubs on offer, opportunities for leadership, trips, outdoor learning and enrichment and space for children to follow their passions. 

Blackheath High Junior School’s extensive co-curricular programme is designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence and help girls discover lifelong passions. Clubs like Mighty Girls, Mandarin, football, 3D design, chess, robotics, cricket and yoga. Every girl gets to experience the joy of music with our taster courses, and our on-site Forest School offers endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. 

 

4. Think about the environment where your child will grow 

Does the school feel calm, joyful and inclusive? Are the classrooms light and well-resourced? Does the outdoor space inspire play, curiosity and exploration? 

Many parents also think about the social environment. A girls-only setting can offer real advantages during the formative primary years: research shows that girls are more likely to take risks, speak confidently, and pursue traditionally “male-dominated” subjects such as STEM when they are educated without gender stereotyping. Schools like Blackheath High Juniors create a space where girls don’t just fit in - they stand out, lead, question and imagine bigger futures. 

 

5. Trust your instincts 

A school can look perfect on paper, but the real test is how it feels. When you walk into a place where your child will spend so much of their childhood, notice your own reaction. Do the children seem happy? Can you imagine your child here? Does the school’s ethos reflect your family’s values? 

Parents often say they “just knew” when they found the right school - and that instinct is worth listening to. 

 

6. And finally… think long-term 

A great primary school doesn’t just prepare your child for the next stage - it shapes their future. It should offer: 

• A strong academic foundation 
• A supportive pastoral system 
• Exciting opportunities to discover their interests and passions 
• A confidence-building environment 
• A clear pathway through to senior school 

Blackheath High Junior School, as part of the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), is designed exactly with that long-term journey in mind. Girls benefit from specialist teaching, extraordinary enrichment, personalised pastoral care, a seamless transition to our Senior School and a school culture built on ambition, kindness and curiosity - all while being part of a powerful all-girls environment that champions their voices and potential. 

Join us on 10 Feb for a very special taster morning for girls looking to join in September 2026. With lessons in Coding and Music, and a chance to meet our inspirational staff and welcoming pupils, you will see for yourself what makes our Reception the perfect place for your daughter. Places are extremely limited so book now.