Not all mums and dads will be what you were expecting – but they all want the best for their kids.
Here are my top 5 tips for surviving your parents’ evening:
1 Know your audience
All parents want the best for their children. They want to feel that that their kids are in safe hands, that you know something about them, that you like them and that you know your stuff.
2 Keep them onside
Don’t be fooled into thinking that parents’ evenings are just about how the pupils are doing – you are going to be judged, too. If you don’t get parents on your side, your work will be much harder. Remember that they might say one thing to your face – but, like a post-match commentary, whatever you say will get analysed later, especially if you don’t handle the situation well.
3 All in the preparation
You’ll feel a lot more confident confident if you are well prepared. Be sure that marking is up to date and everything is organised, especially displays and any work that you’re going to show to parents.
4 Anticipate conflict
Ask your induction tutor to talk you through the school’s procedures for parents’ evening. Ask them to let you to let you know about any “difficult cases” and any handy tips about how to deal with them.
5 Top up your fuel
Don’t forget those all-important drinks and nibbles to keep you going. Your school should organise something for you, but it’s always a good idea to keep a bottle of water, mints, or tea and biscuits with you.
Let me know if you’re finding these tips useful and if you have any more to add please let me know by commenting on the box below!
Thanks,
Ali B – Impact Candidate Care Team
