Parents’ evening is an important opportunity to engage with your child’s teachers, gain insight into their progress, and support their learning journey. However, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to know what questions to ask in the limited time available. To make the most of the meeting, here are the top five questions every parent should consider asking at parents’ evening, inspired by the practices of this independent school in Surrey.
1. How Is My Child Progressing Academically?
Understanding your child’s academic progress is the most obvious but crucial question. Ask the teacher how your child is performing in core subjects like English, Maths, and Science, and whether they are meeting, exceeding, or falling short of expectations for their year group. This will help you understand where your child excels and where they may need additional support.
Also, ask if there are specific skills or topics your child finds challenging, so you can assist with targeted revision or extra practice at home.
2. How Does My Child Behave and Engage in Class?
Academic results only tell part of the story. It’s essential to learn about your child’s behaviour and attitude towards learning. Ask the teacher about their participation in class discussions, their ability to concentrate, and how they get along with peers.
If there are any behavioural concerns or social challenges, finding out early means you can work with the school to support your child’s wellbeing and personal development.
3. What Are My Child’s Strengths and Areas for Improvement?
Every child has unique strengths and talents, as well as areas where they need to develop further. Request specific examples of your child’s strengths — whether it’s creativity, problem-solving, leadership, or resilience.
At the same time, ask the teacher to highlight areas where your child could improve. This balanced feedback will help you encourage your child’s confidence while focusing on areas for growth.
4. How Can I Support My Child’s Learning at Home?
Parents’ evening is a great chance to discuss practical ways to support learning outside school hours. Ask the teacher for recommendations on reading materials, educational websites, or activities that complement the school curriculum.
You might also want to know if your child would benefit from additional tutoring, study groups, or extra-curricular activities that can boost their skills or motivation.
5. What Are the Next Steps for My Child This Year?
Finally, it’s helpful to get a clear idea of what lies ahead in your child’s academic year. Ask about upcoming projects, exams, or assessments they should prepare for.
If your child is approaching key transition points—such as moving from primary to secondary school or preparing for GCSEs—ask for advice on how to navigate these changes successfully.
Making Parents’ Evening Count
Parents’ evening is an invaluable opportunity to build a strong partnership between home and school. By asking these five key questions, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your child’s education and feel empowered to support their learning journey effectively.
Remember to take notes during the meeting and follow up with your child afterwards to discuss what you’ve learnt. This ongoing communication helps ensure your child’s success and happiness at school.
*This is a collaborative post