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Parental involvement in Bradford schools is making a difference.

There are three main strands of parental involvement in education

• Parents’ interest and involvement in their child’s learning and development
• Parents’ relationship with their child’s school
• Education for parents as part of life-long family learning

What do Parental Involvement Workers do?

• Promote a positive relationship between home and school
• Provide opportunities for parents to support their child
• Set up adult education courses for parents
• Work hard to create a friendly, welcoming school environment
• Set up Parent Forums and other groups which help make decisions in schools
• Work with community networks to support school

What are the benefits of Parental Involvement in Education?

For Children…

• When teaches and parents work together children tend to settle easily, enjoy school more, and develop a positive attitude and get better academic results
• Parents understand the value of what they do at home and are able to support their child’s learning
• The schools knows more about the child so can provide appropriately
• A family-friendly school encourages a child’s happiness and self-esteem
• Children, especially younger children, love it when their parents are actively involved in school

For Parents…

• Knowing how school works and being able to raise concerns easily and effectively with staff
• Becoming more confident when talking with staff and supporting
• Feeling reassured about your child’s happiness and safety
• Accessing learning, training and employment advice for yourself
• Contributing to school polices

For Schools…

• Schools gain valuable ideas and support from parents
• There is reduced absenteeism
• There are fewer problems with behaviour
• Issues which may arise can be dealt with quickly and positively
• The school’s work is supported at home and information is passed on more efficiently
• Parents doing courses helps children value education
• A family-friendly school is a happy place to work

Parents are children’s main educators – The most important influence on a child’s achievement is how they are supported at home.

Research confirms that the most important things parents can do with their children are:

• Ask for their ideas, chat and discuss with them – this can be about anything (football, friends, television, school etc)
• Provide opportunities and play with them and have fun
• Offer encouragement and love
• Ensure they get good food and enough sleep
• Taking an interest in their school – e.g. find out what they are learning and ask how you can help them and get involved at home

Contact your area officer or ask about Parental Involvement at your school and how you can get involved.