“ Parental involvement in the form of ‘at home good parenting’ has a significant positive effect on children’s achievement and adjustment even after all other factors shaping attainment have been taken out of the equation. ” Professor Charles Desforges (2003). Impact of involvement, parental support and family education on pupil achievement and adjustment. 1

“ Parents, carers and family members are by far the most important influence on their children’s lives. They influence how young people think about education, their future and society. Therefore their support for schools and engagement in learning is crucial. ” Professor Alma Harris, Kirstie Andrew Power, Janet Goodall (2008). Do Parents Know They Matter – Raising achievement through parental engagement. 2

“ Children are not isolated, they are not islands. We influence their time 6 hrs a day – they are at home for 18 hrs. If we engage the parents then we stand a chance of increasing their life chances. ” Head teacher 3

Involvement Involved parents come into school either: Informally (for example to bring their children into school or provide information for the school) Formally (for example for parents evenings, meeting or adult learning classes) Some would define it as ‘getting them across the threshold’. Engagement Engaged parents actively support learning in the home through being directly involved with extension or support activities, homework or online activities. But it is also associated with the different parenting behaviours as well as practices. Harris et al

5 123 Practices that establish a positive learning environment at home. Parent–school communication about school programs and students’ progress. Parent participation and volunteering opportunities in school. Types of parental engagement 456 Parent and school communication regarding learning activities at home. Parent engagement in school decision making and governance. Parents access to community resources that increase student learning opportunities. Epstein (2002)

6 Desforges’ model of effective parental engagement