Who's involved?
The school's role
Encouraging contact between school and parents by:
- making sure you feel welcome in the school
- providing information about how and when to contact the school. This may be explained in the school handbook or in newsletters
- arranging alternative opportunities if you cannot visit or contact the school during the day because of work or other commitments.
Letting you know about school life and events by:
- writing a letter to you
- sending you a school or class newsletter
- making flyers that highligh events
- making you aware of the school website
- text messaging you (if you are willing to leave your mobile phone number)
- emailing you (if you have an email address).
Sharing information about what your child is learning and how to help them
For example, at primary school this can be about the different levels in maths and English. At secondary, it can be about subject and career choices. This information may be shared through:
- information leaflets and brochures
- special information evenings at the school
- workshops in which you can take part.
Providing you with information about your child
School reports and parents' evenings are the most obvious way of doing this. A separate package has been prepared for parents' evenings. Schools, however, can provide information on an ongoing basis.
- Good news - some schools may send home certificates and awards highlighting achievements.
- Concerns - schools can have many ways of contacting parents, eg through the home-school diary, by telephone, or by letter. Let the school know which method you would prefer.
Inviting you to take part in school events so you can be more involved in the school and know more about school life
Schools can do this by:
- inviting you to help with special projects or initiatives
- asking for help in decision making or planning through short-term working groups (sometimes called focus groups).
The parents' roles
Sharing information with the school about your own child by:
- letting the school know how your child is coping at school and if there is anything they like or dislike
- informing the school of any special circumstances or needs which may affect your child
- contacting the school if you have any concerns.
Letting the school know what you think by:
- asking if you don't understand anything – the school may use jargon which they will explain if you ask
- letting the school know if the information you get from them is helpful or how you think it can be improved
- giving feedback to the school. Schools sometimes ask for feedback and comments on different aspects of school life. They need to know your views about what they are currently doing and how well it is working for your child.
Keeping in contact with the school and school life by:
- reading the information sent out by the school
- finding out the ways you can contact the school if you need to be in touch, eg by phoning the school office or checking the school handbook. Schools now often welcome emails or text messages or you can suggest a way that suits you best
- asking your child if they have anything to pass on from school
- checking your child's home-school diary if the school uses one and using it to give feedback and your own comments
- if you can, taking part in events arranged for parents or offer to assist with school activities.
If you are unsure about being in touch with the school or are concerned about going to the school for any reason at all, remember you can take a friend or family member with you. Some schools have home-school workers who help parents. A home-school worker can meet with you to discuss concerns and can be present when you meet with the school.
