Siblings

The presence of siblings can give you an indication of a school’s popularity.

• If parents send younger siblings to the same school as older brothers and sisters, it would suggest that they are satisfied with the provision.
• However, it is important to note that parents might send their younger children to the same school because of convenience rather than active choice.
• If younger siblings attend the school, then it is more likely to have a family atmosphere, and a sense of its own history.
• If younger siblings attend the school, then it is more likely that it fosters a sense of loyalty among its student cohort.
• It is a cause for concern if a school attracts less able brothers and sisters, with the higher achievers going elsewhere.

Further Information

Open Evening/Visit

Ask what proportion of parents send their younger children to the school. Ask the student showing you round how many of his/her friends have brothers or sisters at the school.

Summary