This term: New starters
As the new intake prepares to start in September, Zoë Hill fi nds out how the PTA can provide a welcoming environment for the children and their parents
What is it?
When the new school year begins, it’s not just
children who’ll be walking through the gates for the fi rst time, it’s their parents too. Take this opportunity to tell them all about the vital work the PTA does, why it’s needed and how they can be a part of it. Above all, stress the benefi ts to the parents, and not just to the
children – making new friends, the rewarding sense of giving something back and
the chance to make a difference to their child’s
school life. 22 SUMMER 2023
pta.co.uk
KNOW
DID YOU
A warm welcome
While you already know the PTA is the heart of the school community, new starters’ parents might not – until you tell them. Any kind of welcome event is a chance to showcase the amazing work you do. Now’s the time to talk about school trips you’ve paid for, library upgrades you’ve
funded, playground equipment you’ve footed the bill for. It’s also when you can dispel some preconceptions – if anyone is worried they don’t have enough time to devote to volunteering, tell them about micro-volunteering, where no amount of time is too small. Worried they’ll be spending all their time in weekly meetings? Reassure them they’re usually only once or twice a term.
5 IDEAS FOR...
Welcoming children 1
2 3
outside school
– they’ll be excited to have something with the logo of their new school, and it’ll be practical too
4
with food) will allow the children to let their hair down during what can be a nerve-wracking time.
5
A sweet treat – something as simple as a cookie or a bag of sweets on their fi rst day, with a welcome note attached, is sure to be a hit
Pizza party – any kind of gathering (especially one
Gift them a teddy – get them to bring it to a teddy bear’s picnic
in September, while the weather is still outdoor-event friendly Host a disco – give them a
chance to see their new friends Give new starters a book bag
5 IDEAS FOR...
Welcoming parents 1
2
Tea and tissues (see facing page) – it’s not just children who can
get a bit teary. This gesture is a gentle way to begin your relationship
Welcome pack – the school will be sending paperwork out this
term; ask if they can include a pack from the PTA too. Use it to plug upcoming events, past achievements and your fundraising initiatives
3 4
5
Charm offensive – being all smiles at school drop-off and
pick-up creates a warm welcome and a friendly impression of the PTA
Cake sale – invite parents of new starters to your next cake sale, so they can see the PTA in action
Informal get-together – if people are worried that attending a meeting is too formal, then a drink in a pub or coffee shop can feel much more relaxed.
IMAGES: MARIUSZBLACH; FAMVELD/
ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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