By Hannah Woolridge Once again, we have reached that time of year where parents of children currently in Year 6 become noticeably anxious and preoccupied as they’re put into the difficult situation of choosing a High School.

All the local High Schools are beginning to have their open evenings where they aim to exhibit their students, staff and facilities to a high standard. Pupils, acting as tour guides, are on their best behaviour. Prospective parents crowd round with hundreds of others, attempting to talk to teachers and examine everything that has been put on display. They all have the same aim: to find the school that will suit their child.

It’s all very well being impressed by schools such as Blenheim, Rosebery and Glyn, but for many parents it has become increasingly difficult to get a place at the school they want. The admissions system means that simply putting a school first does not guarantee a place there. In reality, there is very limited choice. The waiting lists for these three top Epsom schools are getting longer every year. Whilst parents are often keen to send their children to one of the above, many are left disappointed and given a school that they did not opt for. Should you come across some stressed-looking parents – don’t worry, it’s just their new school nerves!

Open Morning/Evening information: Blenheim High School: Thursday 8th October. There will be a tour in the morning starting at 9.15am. The school will also be open in the evening from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. Glyn Technology School: Wednesday 30th September. There will be an Open Evening between 6pm and 9pm. There are also Open Mornings on Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th October from 10am to 11am and 11am to 12pm.

Rosebery School: The Open Evening is scheduled for Thursday 1st October from 7pm to 9pm. There will also be two Open Mornings on Tuesday 6th and Wednesday 7th October between 9.30am and 12pm.

Epsom & Ewell High School: There will be an Open Evening on Tuesday 6th October from 6pm.