Pupils and staff at Bannockburn Primary School have discovered first-hand the benefits of working in partnership with support agencies, thanks to a pioneering parental involvement project.
The school works in close partnership with parents and carers, encouraging a culture of inclusion and approachability. One of the most successful of its programmes is its annual Health and Wellbeing evening for the parents of pupils in P6 and P7. Running for the past two years, the evening engages parents and carers in supporting their children's learning and also empowers them to help at times of vulnerability, such as the transition into secondary school.
Consultation
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The evening workshops are planned by the school's depute headteacher and Parent Council. All parents are consulted on the areas about which they would like more information. Recent workshops have covered a range of issues relevant to the age group of P6 and P7 pupils, and have been supported by others involved with the school community such as the Health Service, local police and community sports leaders.
For example, a workshop on internet safety and one on drugs were led by representatives from the police, and the sexual health programme workshop was conducted by the school nurse. On both occasions, parents were given the opportunity to view resources and join in the discussions.
Even pupils at the secondary school have had an important role to play, attending the evening workshops on transition and chatting to parents about what to expect. Members of the Parent Council were able to discuss their participation in a cluster working group looking at improving parental involvement in transition.
In fact the Parent Council members are very visible at the workshops, circulating throughout the evening to gather views and ideas. Their role has been very effective, providing an ideal opportunity for parents and carers to share their concerns and discuss how they can support one another, their children and the wider school community.
Engaging with pupils
The workshops are also an ideal time for teaching staff to engage with pupils outside school hours, reinforcing the message that they are there to support pupils whenever they need it. Children attending with their parents take part in activities such as the 'Let's Get Active' health and wellbeing session run by Active Stirling staff, or watch interactive DVDs exploring topics such as making good choices and dealing with situations that could lead them into trouble. A crèche is also provided for younger children.
The atmosphere of the evening workshops is deliberately busy and informal to set parents at their ease and encourage free conversation. A café provides refreshments and each family is given a 'golden ticket' for a prize draw, providing an exciting end to the evening.
Bannockburn Primary School is delighted with the results of its workshops, and the Parent Council is currently engaged in responding to feedback and planning their future development. Parents have reported feeling reassured that their children are well supported both through the school and partner agencies in the community. What's more, the parents themselves feel better prepared to support their children at home, in their preparation for secondary and for life outside school.
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