Parent Carers

The SEND Code of Practice (2014) highlights the vital role of parent carers as equal partners in their child’s education.

Schools and local authorities must involve them in decision-making, value their insights, and provide clear, accessible information. Collaborative working with parent carers ensures that support is tailored, aspirations are shared, and outcomes are co-produced to best meet the child or young person’s needs. Their expertise and perspective are essential for effective SEND provision.

Short code	Description
Ethos and behaviours	Effective parental participation in schools is guided by leadership, strategy, and the resources that foster a positive and inclusive environment. The parent experience is powered by a welcoming atmosphere, prioritised support, and the school team's culture.
Two-way communication	Parent participation is at it's best when there is impactful, accessible, inclusive and reciprocal communications.
Home-based learning	Encouraging parents to offer positive support for their child's learning enhances teachers' practice and increases achievement. By enabling parent skills to support learning at home, schools guide them to understand their role in their child's journey through education.
Involvement in school life	Engaging parents with a wide variety of inclusive activities significantly improves the school's resources and skills. With strong active parent involvement, schools can foster trust and establish long-term collaborations that enhance educational outcomes.
Community partnerships	The relationship between school and home can be strengthened by referring to additional resources and areas of specialism. Maintaining a diverse network of partnerships with local and national groups, schools can better support families facing challenges.