You can help them learn

Research clearly shows that the single most important factor behind educational achievement is getting parents and carers involved in their children's learning. And where parents and teachers work together, children and young people do even better. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to become more involved in your child’s learning and to track their progress.

How do I get closer to what’s going on in my child’s classroom?

Technology holds the key to widening your involvement in your child’s education. It makes it much easier for you to communicate and become an active partner with their school or college. For example, things like emails, text alerts and secure online access to your school website can help you stay better informed about your child’s progress. If you have internet access, and your school is on the ball, you should be able to:

• keep track of your children’s work, curriculum and homework assignments
• view their reports, attendance records and grades
• keep in touch with teachers and other staff.

Can I help my child learn from home?

Yes. Any time spent supporting your child’s learning at home is valuable. And a home computer with internet access offers real advantages for learners of all ages. Properly supervised, it can:

• improve their technology skills
• provide more options for what they learn and how they learn it
• support homework and revision
• connect learning at home with learning at school
• make learning more fun!

Don't forget! Evidence indicates that children who use a computer at home gain higher GCSE results and are more likely to stay in education post-16.