1 Apr 2008 - PARENTS IN PARTNERSHIP AT NSC PRIMARY SCHOOL

At NSC  Primary school we never underestimate the important role that parents play in their children’s education. Research carried out at Exeter University led by Charles Desforges has identified that good parenting has a significantly positive effect on children’s achievement and adjustment, even after all other factors have been taken out and that this factor is far bigger than any of the other differences to be found between schools.

We count ourselves lucky therefore that we have so many supportive parents in our own school community.  From reception onwards parents play an active part in their children’s education and we have many parents who spend time helping us in school, on school trips and with outdoor activities and residentials.  Many others help out with our daily Walking Bus and all of our parents play their part in helping with weekly homework and with independent research projects.

Last month we held our Spring Term Child/Parent/Teacher evenings so that everyone could meet up and discuss the progress of each pupil and set new personalised targets for the term ahead. As usual, virtually all of our parents made the commitment to attend, requesting alternative appointments if the set dates were really impossible for them. This sends such an important message to our pupils – school and home really do work together, supporting our children to reach their potential and giving them the best start possible in their lives.

Some of our most active parents are to be found within our school association, FANS. The committee works tirelessly to arrange social gatherings and fund raising events throughout the year as well as supporting organised school events.  They also run our Book Fayre in school twice a year and this is invaluable in developing our children’s love of books. This term the organisation of the fayre has been taken over by Heidi and Dan Howarth which has been great as they have been able to share their expertise as author and illustrator of children’s books, advising and encouraging the children in their choice of reading.

FANS main social event this term is planned for Wednesday 02 April from 6:30 – 8:00 in the school hall when they will be holding a family “Springo” session which will be a mix of some Bingo games and a friends and family Team Quiz.  If any readers would like to come and join us then I am sure that you will be made most welcome!

HEATHER M PERRY

HEADTEACHER