February 2016

The know zone

  • It's a jungle out there...
    As I walk around school during the day I am struck by the differing groups of students that I meet and observe. Each group has its own social structure, feeding pattern and natural habitat. While there has been little scientific research into these groups I have tried to collate my observations. More
  • Lessons in life?
    A new report from the Office of the Children’s Commissioner recommends compulsory personal, social, health and economic (PSHE) lessons in schools. What are your views – should PSHE be a compulsory component in the National Curriculum? Here ASCL members share their thoughts. More
  • Leaders' surgery
    Hotline advice expressed here, and in calls to us, is made in good faith to our members. Schools and colleges should always take formal HR or legal advice from their indemnified provider before acting. More
  • Great opportunities for leadership development
    ASCL Professional Development (PD) offers a range of support to provide you with the solutions you need. Our events, which are accessible to members and non-members alike, are packed full of practical ideas that you can take back to school or college and are led by expert education practitioners from ASCL’s team. More
  • The appliance of science
    British Science Week (11–20 March 2016) is the UK’s largest grassroots celebration of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) that takes place each March. Every year, it brings together schools, colleges, professionals and communities to celebrate and explore STEM. More
  • Engaging with parents to raise pupil attainment
    Parents say work commitments are the most common barrier to getting more involved in their child’s school life* but parents who have insight into their child’s progress can help to support their development. With the busy lives that parents lead, schools need to find new ways of engaging parents with their child’s progress: More
  • Know your rights
    Academies have changed the landscape on employment and too often staff find themselves with fewer entitlements than expected, so study your contract before you sign, says Sara Ford. More
  • Broadening their horizons
    As the latest research shows, children learn the basics best when they are taught as part of a broad and balanced curriculum, rather than in splendid isolation, says Julie McCulloch. More
  • Braced for change
    Working in a MAT or stand-alone school? Operational or strategic role? Val Andrew looks at what the future holds for school business leaders and school business managers. More
Bookmark and Share

Engaging with parents to raise pupil attainment

Parents say work commitments are the most common barrier to getting more involved in their child’s school life* but parents who have insight into their child’s progress can help to support their development. With the busy lives that parents lead, schools need to find new ways of engaging parents with their child’s progress:

Communication is key 

Providing parents with a better understanding of their child’s progress encourages them to take a greater interest in their child’s school life. 

Run courses for parents 

Some parents don’t feel that they have the skills to support their child with homework tasks. Running courses for parents will help them feel more confident with supporting their child. 

Invite parents into school 

Inviting parents into school to discuss career possibilities available to their child is a great way of engaging them. Many parents find discussing careers easier to relate to than their child’s everyday learning tasks. Schools Information Management System (SIMS) communication tools help you engage effectively with parents. As an ASCL member, you are entitled to a 10 per cent discount on 120 courses delivered in training venues across the country.

Find a course at: 

www.capita-sims.co.uk/training 

Call 0844 893 9000

to claim your discount.

LEADING READING