Parental engagement: guidance and examples

Take a look at practical strategies to engage parents with their child's learning and your school community, including examples from different schools and a trust.

Last reviewed on 11 May 2022
School types: AllSchool phases: AllRef: 8764
Contents
  1. Develop a culture of open communication with parents 
  2. Set expectations from the start
  3. Set up a parent forum to involve them in decision-making
  4. Involve parents in their child’s learning
  5. Recruit parent support workers to build the home-school relationship

Develop a culture of open communication with parents 

Welcome new parents

Start engaging parents as soon as possible after pupils first join the school. For example:

Use surveys to capture their views 

For example, ask parents about their views on:

  • What you're doing already 
  • What could be better
  • What they would like more of

Use this parent survey pack to help you - in particular look at the questions under ‘leadership and management’ and ‘Ofsted Parent View’.

Be available to build positive relationships with parents

Make sure the senior leadership team and form tutors/class teachers are visible and accessible around the school to build these relationships.

Be present at the school gates before or after school to talk with parents  Invite