#508 Virtual Tour – Norwich Primary Academy

The virtual film allowed the opportunity for children and their families to get to know the staff at Norwich Primary Academy. The scariest thing for parents and children is often the unknown, so this really helped parents to feel at ease and children to know who their teachers were. The tour also allowed the children and parents to get a sense of what the school was like, to see basic things such as where they will eat lunch, where they will play and where the main reception is. We found that the tour reduced anxiety for our children and this plus a tour on their first day meant that the children settled into school quickly and felt at ease on day one. We were concerned that we would have more children upset about leaving their parents due to not knowing about the school, but we did not experience these issues and I believe this is partly due to the virtual tour and interviews.

Firstly, we ensured the school was clean and displays were refreshed and looking good. Staff read through and prepared answers to some of the questions provided. Staff had time to get ready to ensure they were happy when appearing on camera. The interview of the Headteacher took place first and we had prepared the library for this interview. After this we had covered the reception teachers so they could appear in their films. Finally during lesson time and after school the shots of the classrooms and corridors took place. We had a second space set up for all classes so we could move children as and when needed.

Ensure you have allocated sufficient time to complete the tour. It will take an entire day, 8am until 4.30pm, and a member of staff will need to be available at all times. Also, be aware that you will need to move classes to ensure shots of classrooms and corridors can take place with no children present.

The creation of the Virtual Tour was funded by the Norwich Opportunity Area. Total cost £795.