Ways to get involved

With the Ministry of Education’s support, New Zealand schools are set up to give the community a say in deciding how their school works. You’re encouraged to have a close relationship with your son or daughter’s school and help support their learning at home.

Here are some ways you can support your teen’s learning:

  • read school newsletters and attend school events
  • prepare for and attend parent-teacher interviews
  • talk to your teen regularly about what they’ve learned at school and what they’re finding easy or hard
  • talk to your son or daughter’s form teacher and dean promptly if you have any questions or concerns
  • encourage your teen to set aside a regular time each day to do homework (read more about helping with homework)

Other ways to be involved

  • Have your say on any school consultation issues/topics.
  • Get to know who is on your school’s board of trustees (they have regular meetings and must listen to what parents want).
  • Vote in the three-yearly elections of the board of trustees.
  • Consider attending a board meeting if you’re interested in standing for election on the board of trustees.
  • Let the school know if you can volunteer or be a parent help.
  • Find out if the school has a parent group that you can join.

Ask your school how else you can get involved.



Content last updated: 2 February 2012