Essential Parent Enquiry Checklist for Schools: Best Practices for Converting Prospective Parents

Discover the ultimate parent enquiry checklist for schools. Learn how to effectively convert prospective parents with engaging practices and ensure a positive impression.


Essential Parent Enquiry Checklist for Schools: Best Practices for Converting Prospective Parents

When prospective parents visit your school, making a positive and lasting impression is crucial. A well-structured enquiry process not only helps in converting inquiries into admissions but also sets the tone for the school’s reputation. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to ensure that your school’s enquiry process is as effective as possible:

1. Highlight Unique Offerings

Ensure that enquiry personnel can clearly articulate what your school offers that sets it apart from others. This could include unique programs, extracurricular activities, or any special facilities that are unavailable at nearby schools.

2. Restrict Staff Movement

Limit staff movement in the enquiry space when parents are present. This helps maintain a professional atmosphere and minimizes distractions during the enquiry process.

3. Manage Classroom Accessibility

Restrict parents from accessing classrooms until they have purchased an enquiry form. This maintains classroom integrity and ensures that interested parties are serious about the process.

4. Withhold Fee Information

Avoid disclosing school fees and other financial details until a form has been purchased. This approach encourages commitment and ensures that only serious inquiries are entertained.

5. Communicate Achievements and Goals

During the enquiry, share the school’s achievements and future intentions. This can include recent awards, successful programs, and plans for future development.

6. Maintain a Professional Appearance

Ensure that all enquiry staff are well-presented. A professional appearance contributes to a positive first impression and reflects the school’s standards.

7. Keep the Enquiry Space Separate

Position the enquiry space away from classrooms to avoid disruptions and to keep the focus on the prospective parents’ questions and concerns.

8. Provide Essential Documentation

Have undertaking forms readily available at the enquiry desk. This demonstrates preparedness and facilitates a smooth enquiry process.

9. Showcase Achievements

Display pictures and awards at the enquiry desk to visually represent the school’s successes and accolades.

10. Engage with Parents Personally

Ask prospective parents about their family’s occupation and any controlled health challenges (mental or physical) to better understand their needs and provide tailored information.

11. Collect Contact Information

Request contact details for both parents. If there’s any objection, proceed with the admission process but report the situation to the school proprietor.

12. Designate Responsible Staff

The reception staff or school secretary should handle enquiries. Ensure they are well-trained and have undergone thorough orientation from the Head of Academics and Head of Administration.

13. Handle Complex Questions

For queries outside of their jurisdiction, staff should either make a call or seek assistance from the Head of School. This ensures accurate and comprehensive responses.

By following this checklist, schools can enhance their enquiry process, create a positive experience for prospective parents, and increase the likelihood of successful conversions. A structured and professional approach not only reflects well on the school but also helps in building lasting relationships with new families.