Home-school links boosted by £350,000

Funding to get parents more involved

Funding of £350,000 has been announced as part of an action plan to get more parents involved in schools.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney set out measures aimed at improving the links between home and the classroom.

These include actions to encourage the involvement of groups including minority parents, parents of children with additional support needs, and those with children who are disabled or have learning disabilities.

Other measures include expanding opportunities for parents to volunteer in schools, reviewing the statutory guidance on parental involvement and improving guidance and training for parent councils.

Mr Swinney said: “We want every parent and family to have the right support in place so that they can be involved in every stage of their children’s learning and development.

“We know there is a strong link between parental engagement and academic achievement, and this plan will play a key role in helping to reduce the attainment gap.

“This action plan will help cement Scotland’s place as a world leader in parental involvement and engagement, and I look forward to working with a wide range of partners to deliver this plan in the coming three years.”

Councillor Stephen McCabe, Cosla’s children and young people spokesman, said: “Involving parents in all aspects of their children’s education is a crucial part of ensuring that children and young people get the most from their time in school and are able to fulfil their full potential.”