Finding a secondary school for your child can feel daunting. Finding good sources of information can help. Use both formal and informal sources of help and don't forget to take your child's wishes into account.

You are bombarded with conflicting advice from other parents, teachers, the media, the government and of course, your child's friends ('You're not going there, are you?'). Although the system appears complex, keep cool and remember your priority is, which school would suit your child?

The schools
Visits are essential - you should attend an open evening, and if you like what you see, arrange a personal visit. Visits are essential - you should attend an open evening, and if you like what you see, arrange a personal visit. Prepare a checklist of points to consider and questions to ask.

This might include:

Appearances and atmosphere... don't judge the school by its building - that brutal concrete block could conceal a haven of civilisation. However, litter, graffiti, and a general air of neglect are cause for concern. Try not to write off the school if you see a couple of pupils behaving badly. Instead, look for a lively, industrious atmosphere.

Ask questions... always speak to the headteacher - the head's attitude has a vital influence on the school. Does he seem sharp and brimming with ideas, or world-weary?

Ask about the choice of subjects at GCSE, discipline policy, the range of ability and how pupils are divided up. Ask how the school would cater for your child's talents or special needs.

Now is the time to raise any particular concerns e.g. is your child dyslexic, lacking in confidence, gifted in music? Do the staff seem interested in your concerns? Ask to speak to some Year 11s or sixth-formers - they can give an overview of their years at the school as well as an insider's perspective.

Other parents
As you may have discovered, parents love to get together and pick the education system apart. Always listen, but don't make up your mind on the basis of one or two parents' experiences. It's an obvious but essential point - your child is different from theirs and will have different needs and talents.

Your child
Choice of secondary school, unlike primary, will be a negotiation between you and your child. He may have strong views about particular schools and be influenced by where his friends are going. Respect this, but if he can be persuaded to make visits with you, a rigid insistence on one school may shift. Ideally, get him to talk to older pupils at the schools.