Parents as Partners

An induction programme is in place for new entrants to Primary 1 and also for Primary 7 pupils preparing for secondary education. This programme is the first of many steps taken in an effort to involve parents in the life of the establishment.  It is important to note that parents have considerable skills to offer as partners in education.

Open evenings and afternoons are arranged twice a year to allow parents to visit the establishmentand discuss progress with the class teacher.   Workshops and consultation are part of our development programme, as only by promoting understanding can we provide a meaningful education to our pupils.

We are fortunate to have a number of parents and relatives who assist in activities throughout the school. Volunteers (subject to PVG checks) are always welcome to work in the school and give an added dimension to a child’s education.

The school has developed a Parents as Partners Policy which identifies aims and objectives for the involvement of parents.

We aim to provide a range of events throughout the session. Recent activities have included  Bingo evenings, Open Days, Burn’s day Competition, Sports Day and the school concert. This commitment to the life of the establishment from pupils, parents and staff shows we have a shared vision for St Patrick’s.

Parental support for learning is most important in the homework situation. Support your child with their homework tasks. Always take time to check and sign their work. This not only ensures a good standard of work but also shows the child that you value their learning.

The Parent Council

The Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006 was passed in July 2006.  The intention of the Act is to become more involved in their child’s education.

As a parent of a child in attendance at the school, you are automatically part of the Parent Forum of the school. The membership of the Parent Forum is made up of all parents who have a child at the school. The Parent Forum can decide to form a smaller body called the Parent Council.  The Parent Council is a group of parents selected by members of the Parent Forum to represent them.  Parent Councils are very flexible groups and the Parent Forum can decide on the type of group it wants to represent their views. This flexibility allows parents to choose a Parent Council which reflects their school and will encourage parents to become involved and engaged with their child’s education.

At St Patrick’s Primary School the constitution of the Parent Council allows for a minimum of 3 and a maximum of 12 members. We currently have 12 members and the Council is chaired by Mrs Gail McGhee.