By James Penstone, Secondary Principal
4 October 2024
Last week we held what we now call ‘Student-Parent-Teacher Conferences’.
Just five years ago they were simply called ‘Parent-Teacher Conferences’, but we have, since then, intentionally placed the student at the heart of these key conversations concerning their learning. This is an important recognition of the fact that we believe that students should be empowered to take ownership of their learning.
But what about the word ‘Parent’ in the same title of these conferences? This word is also vital. These conferences are just one means by which parents can have a significant impact on their child(ren)’s learning.
Over the past couple of years, I’ve had the chance to share with parents some key research findings on how they can effectively support their child(ren)’s learning. A large meta-analysis published by the American Psychological Association in 2019 explored the ways parental involvement shapes children’s school experience.
The research identifies several ways parents can positively contribute to their child’s education:
- Understanding how the school operates: Attending school events, staying informed about how the school functions, and maintaining communication with teachers help children feel more connected and supported in their academic environment.
- Promoting a positive narrative about education: Showing a consistent, positive attitude towards the value of education at home boosts children’s motivation and engagement with their studies.
- Supporting your child’s organisation and learning space: Providing a quiet, structured environment for homework and encouraging organisational skills can improve their ability to manage their learning. For example, parents can help by designating a dedicated, clutter-free space for home learning that is free from distractions. Encouraging time management is also key — helping your child create a simple routine or schedule for completing tasks fosters both independence and a sense of responsibility in their learning.
- Additionally, research shows that parents' cognitive-intellectual involvement — such as reading with children or exposing them to enriching experiences (accompanying them to museums, for example) — also contributes positively to academic achievement.
Interestingly, the study also reveals that parents' involvement in homework (or home learning as it is referred to at ICS) can have mixed results. While parental involvement in this sphere may slightly boost student motivation and engagement, it tends to have a small negative effect on academic achievement. This suggests that while it’s tempting to help with homework, promoting independence in your child’s learning is crucial for their ongoing success.
At ICS, we fully recognise the importance of partnering with parents to support our shared aspiration for the success and well-being of the students in our care. We are deeply grateful for your continued participation and involvement in your child's ongoing learning journey here at ICS.
James Penstone
Secondary Principal