Practical advice and guidance

With such a variety of communication tools, it is important that schools provide the proper support and training to ensure that what is communicated is timely and meaningful rather than just ‘getting in touch’ or sharing of data. The partnership between parents and schools means that parents have access to information and advice from a variety of sources which helps them support the development and well-being of their child. By keeping parents informed on their child’s progress, communication can be more focused, having more impact and positively benefiting the child.

Becta's Niel McLean, a former teacher and parent of two children, offers his advice on how technology can be used to help facilitate regular contact between school and parent:

For schools:

• Consult parents on how they’d like to be kept informed on progress – some parents really value face-to-face contact, whereas others appreciate the convenience of tools such as text alerts or online reporting as a quick way to get a snapshot of their child’s progress
• The school website is one of the most impactful communication tools at your disposal, giving parents access to regular updates on school life and showing that learning is about more than just test results. From timetables, to school trips, sharing photos and learning tools, the website can both support parents and immerse them in school life, meaning they come to more formal meetings better informed.
• Email is popular amongst parents as a quick way to get information – 50% say an email address where they can get a prompt response would help communication ‘a lot’ and 42% say regular email updates from the school would help them get more involved. However, it is important schools agree realistic expectations on the use of email with parents and that the technology and systems are in place to help teachers manage emails effectively.

For parents:

• Getting involved with your child’s education is known to help them do better at school. Talk to your child’s school and find out what technologies they are currently using to communicate with parents – you might find there are new ways of getting updates which you didn’t know were available, for example text or email
• Be sensitive to your teacher’s workload and consider the most time-efficient ways to communicate. For example, rather than sending lots of emails asking for different updates, why not first check the school’s website or online reporting facility to see if the information you’re looking for is already available?
• Talk to your children – a recent Becta report showed that 82% of parents admit they don’t know as much about their child’s day at school as they want to.  However this is one of the best ways to keep informed and updated. To learn more about how to to get the most out of your after-school conversations visit: http://www.nextgenerationlearning.org.uk/ohnothingmuch/