Why it matters

You know your child best. Your child’s teachers want to get to know them too.

When you work together with the school, it helps everyone better understand your child’s strengths, needs and interests. You will be invited to share your ideas and have input into decisions about your child’s learning.

A strong, respectful relationship with your child’s school helps you speak up for your child and support them to succeed.

Building a strong relationship

The best outcomes happen when families and schools work as a team. This is a two-way partnership.

The school will:

• share information with you about your child’s learning and wellbeing
• talk with you about your child’s strengths and needs
• work with you to plan the right support.

You can:

• ask questions, share ideas and give feedback
• let the school know about your child’s achievements outside of school
• keep the school informed about anything that may affect your child.

Simple ways to stay connected

You don’t need to be at school all the time to stay involved. Small actions make a big difference.

You can:

• talk with teachers at drop-off or pick-up, or by phone or email
• attend parent-teacher interviews or meetings
• check school emails, apps or newsletters
• join in school events when you can.

If you’re busy, that’s okay. Talking positively about school at home and showing interest in your child’s learning still sends a strong message that education matters.

Reaching out for support

If you have concerns about your child’s learning, wellbeing or behaviour, reach out to the school early.

A strong partnership helps you:

• share concerns
• ask questions
• work together on solutions.

The school may suggest a meeting to talk through what’s happening and plan next steps together.

Working together

The Student code of conduct helps students and parents and carers understand the behaviour we expect at our schools. For more information see our Information about the revised Student code of conduct webpage.

A team approach works best. You, your child and the school all have a role to play. This includes:

• listening to each other's views
• sharing information openly
• focusing on what is best for your child
• staying involved and keep communication going
• following through on agreed actions at home
• working with the school to support your child’s learning and behaviour
• sharing important information about your child’s health or wellbeing
• asking for help when needed
• supporting plans that help your child feel safe and supported at school.

Planning support for your child

If your child needs extra help, the school may suggest individual learning and support planning.

Planning is developed with you and may include:

• clear goals for your child
• strategies to support learning and behaviour
• actions for you, your child and the school.

The school may also involve other staff, such as:

• the learning and support team
• school counsellor or psychologist
• behaviour or wellbeing staff.

Sometimes, support from outside services (like health professionals) may also be helpful.

If your child has a medical condition, mental health concern, or disability, sharing this information with the school is strongly encouraged to help staff provide appropriate support. Please discuss and of your child's needs with school staff - they are here to support you and your child.

The school may also ask for your consent to speak with your child’s doctor or other professionals to better support your child. All information provided is confidential.

Keeping track

It can help to keep a record of meetings and plans.

You might:

• write down key points from meetings
• keep copies of plans or emails
• use a communication book or app if the school provides one.

The school will also keep records of agreed plans and supports.

Learn more

You can find more information about support for students on the Inclusive learning support website.

Need language support?

If you need help communicating in English, you can use the Telephone Interpreter Service.

Call 131 450, tell them the language you need and ask them to contact your child’s school. An interpreter will join the call to help with the conversation.

This service is free.