Back to School
Schools are generally very keen to foster a good relationship with parents and their wider community. Often people are well- intentioned and would like to help out, but don’t know how. Here are some ideas which might appeal.
1. You could become a member of the Parent
Teachers Association.
Traditionally these were developed to foster better relationships between parents and schools, but they are now generally associated with fundraising. You could be involved with activities as varied as running a stall at the summer fete, overseeing discos for the pupils, or organising quiz evenings for parents. Associations are always looking for innovative fundraising ideas, and bringing in new members can bring additional contacts and diff erent perspectives.
2. Why not become a parent governor? Governors get involved with the strategic decision making of schools. They attend full governor body meetings and usually sit on committees dealing with various aspects of the school, such as staffi ng fi nance and curriculum. Parent governors are voted for by the parents of pupils at the school. Core responsibilities include: ensuring accountability; acting as a ‘critical friend’ to the Head Teacher; monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress; budgetary allocation and control; planning for the long term future of the school; setting the school’s aims and values, and appointing senior members of staff , including the Head Teacher.
3. Maybe you would like to be a classroom helper. Classroom helpers volunteer to assist teachers on a regular basis, usually in primary schools. They may be in school for half an hour a week, or perhaps up to half a day. They help with tasks such as
listening to pupils read. Reading practice is very labour-intensive, and helpers can make a big diff erence to teachers and children. It is generally recommended that you assist in a class which isn’t the one your child is in.
4. Perhaps you could help outside the classroom by going on a school outing. This could be a regular weekly trip to the local swimming pool, occasional days out to places of interest, or helping with the football team.
5. You may also be able to help your child’s
school by sharing your
experiences. Many senior schools have events where parents and local business people come into school to talk about their careers, or to discuss anecdotes about taking part in a notable event or visiting an unusual place.
For all but the most fl eeting of visits, you will need to undergo a police background check before you can be part of school activities. It
is a standard procedure carried out by Disclosure Scotland.
Many school volunteers not only benefi t from a sense of pride and fulfi lment at having assisted, but also fi nd that they improve their skills and enhance their CVs.
Please mention thewire when responding to adverts 49
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