As a primary teacher, I look at the principal to assess the tone of the school. I have worked in some schools were the principals talked so much rubbish there was no respect from the teachers. The students pick up from this and it tends to lead towards a school that is a bit 'scruffy', unorganised, less respectful than others.

I would recommend enquiying about what their literacy and mathematics programs entail. Many schools still allow individual teachers to create their own plans in regards to both. I believe that this can lead to inconsistencies within the levels as not all students are being taught the same. It is now becoming more common for schools to implement general whole school plans - schools outline what is taught but teachers choose how to teach.

Also, the percentage of students who are at level within classrooms. Many schools do not agree with repeating grades for many reasons, so this can lead to mixed ability groups. A good teacher is more than capable to teach a mixed class, but sometimes the students at the lower and higher end can suffer.

The above also applies for composite classes.

There are so many things to look for academic wise, but you need to also look at the students as you walk through the school. What is their general attitude? Do they have facilities to play? Is the yard mixed or have they grouped it by age?

I hope this helps. Goodluck!