Parent and Carer Engagement
At Danetree Primary School, we deeply value the role of parents and carers in enhancing children's educational outcomes. Research indicates that children excel academically when their parents are actively involved in their learning journeys. Therefore, we provide a variety of opportunities for parents and carers to engage in school life, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits both children and the school community.
Roles of Parents and Carers
Parents and carers contribute to our school in several meaningful ways, including:
- School Standards Board: Serving on the governing body to influence strategic decisions.
- Parent Class Representatives: Acting as liaisons between parents and the school.
- Volunteers: Assisting with school trips, library duties, and supporting children with reading.
- PTA Members: Engaging in essential fundraising and community-building activities.
Engagement Opportunities
We offer a range of engagement opportunities, which are communicated through:
- Danetree Digest
- School Website
- Social Media Channels
Notable events include:
- Seasonal school fetes
- Curriculum project showcases
- Class assemblies and productions
- Parent Forums
Communication Strategies
To establish effective communication with parents and inform them about school activities, we:
- Ensure all written communications are user-friendly, useful, and informative.
- Utilise a texting service to send messages to parents’ mobile phones.
- Publish regular, weekly year group news.
- Maintain and regularly update our school website.
- Share information via MCAS, social media, and the school newsletter.
- Foster a welcoming environment with an ‘open door’ policy.
- Signpost external services offering support for children and families.
Gathering Views
To capture the views and opinions of parents, we:
- Provide opportunities to complete questionnaires at Parents’ Evenings or through the online Ofsted ‘Parent View’ survey.
- Seek parental consultation on key issues at Parent Forum meetings.
- Maintain an ‘Open Door’ policy for parents wishing to discuss any aspect of school life.
Dedicated Support for Families
Our staff are available to assist families by providing support in various areas, including:
- Completing forms
- Advising on practical and emotional issues affecting families
Parents can easily reach out by emailing info@danetreeschool.org.
Parent Workshops
We host a series of free workshops covering a wide range of subjects, ensuring there is something for every parent. A calendar of these opportunities is emailed at the beginning of each term, allowing parents to plan their involvement effectively.
Parent Forum
The Parent Forum serves as a partnership between parents and the school, providing a platform to share ideas and suggest improvements. Class Parent Representatives are invited to attend termly meetings, chaired by a member of the leadership and management team. Other staff members may also attend based on the agenda.
Aims of the Parent Forum
- Collaborate: Work together to enhance the services provided for our children.
- Share Knowledge: Exchange information, knowledge, and skills among parents and staff.
- Support Each Other: Foster a mutually supportive environment for all participants.
- Improve Communication: Enhance communication between parents/carers and staff/governors.
Important Note: The Parent Forum is not the appropriate venue for discussing individual concerns or complaints. Parents are encouraged to approach their child’s class teacher first, followed by the Year Group Leader and then the associated Assistant Headteacher/ Deputy Headteacher if further assistance is required.
