How do Australian schools communicate with parents?

Résumé détaillé

Do you have a question for your child's teacher but aren't sure if you should ask it? For many migrant parents, communicating with teachers can feel intimidating, especially if you come from education systems where parent involvement is limited. Here's what you need to know about talking to…

For many migrant families, communicating with schools can feel very different from what they experienced in their home country.

Allison Greene who works with migrant and refugee families through Foundation House, says some families come from education systems where parents have limited contact with teachers and school staff.

In Australia, schools generally encourage regular communication and view parents as important partners in a child's learning and wellbeing.

These channels are used to share information about learning, attendance, excursions, events and student wellbeing.

Kate Lindner, an English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D) teacher at Albury North Public School, says school communication can feel overwhelming for families who are still learning English or adjusting to a new education system.

If you're unsure what a message means, contact the school and ask for clarification. Schools understand that many families are navigating language and cultural differences at the same time and will be able to assist you.

Ms Greene encourages families to ask questions if they feel they may have missed information at enrolment or during the school year.

A simple question such as, "What have we missed and how can we catch up?" can help schools identify information, programs or support services that may be useful for your family.

According to Ms Greene, schools want to build strong partnerships with families and better understand children's backgrounds, experiences and needs.

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