Issue 1: Improving Student Learning through Parent Engagement

Understanding Parent Engagement and Involvement

The Family-School Partnerships Framework emphasises parent engagement in learning rather than mere involvement in schools. Parent involvement typically includes activities like attending parent-teacher interviews, school events, or volunteering in the classroom. In contrast, parent engagement encompasses these activities and extends to supporting children’s learning at home, school, and in community settings, acknowledging the diverse cultural and social backgrounds of families.

Parental engagement is crucial for children's cognitive, social, and emotional development. It shapes family practices, behaviours, and can impact the school community and the overall schooling experience. Parental engagement is a highly significant leverage point for enhancing the academic attainment and wellbeing of children and young people.

Benefits of Strong Parent-School Partnerships

Strong parent-school partnerships are one of the most effective ways to support children's learning, development, and wellbeing. These partnerships benefit not only students but also teachers and parents. Children whose parents actively engage with their school tend to attend more regularly, feel more positive about school, perform better academically, and develop better social, physical, and emotional wellbeing. They also feel valued because their parents show interest in their school lives and are more likely to pursue further education or apprenticeships.

For teachers and school staff, these partnerships lead to higher job satisfaction, reduced stress, and the ability to tailor teaching approaches to meet children's specific needs. Parents gain better communication with teachers, feel empowered to share information about their children, and experience less stress knowing they can collaborate with school staff on their children's learning and development.

Overcoming Modern Challenges

In today’s complex society, establishing strong relationships between families and educators requires extraordinary efforts. Schools must proactively reach out to families, making them feel welcome as full partners in the educational process. Families, in turn, must commit time and energy to support their children at home and school.

Effective communication between parents and teachers is vital. Sharing information ensures that both parties can support children's overall development. Face-to-face interactions, complemented by technology like email, notifications and social media posts, facilitate constant communication, ensuring responsiveness to students' unique needs.

The effort to build strong parent-school partnerships is well worth it. Parents engaging meaningfully improves student growth and performance, creates a supportive school climate, and promotes an environment of trust and respect.