Role of a Parent Association

The Parent Association is the structure through which parents in a school can work together for the best possible education for their children. Partnership between the home and school is important because with positive and active partnership, children get the best that primary education can offer.

The Education Act, 1998 sets down the role of the Parent Association:

The Parent Association works with the Principal, Staff and the Board of Management to build effective partnership of home and school.

Educational research on the involvement of parents in schools shows that children achieve higher levels when parents and teachers work together.

The Parent Association can advise the Principal and Board of Management on policy issues and incidents that may require a review of school policy, e.g. Bullying, Safety, Homework, Enrolment, Behaviour problems etc.

Parent Associations can suggest and/or organise extra-curricular activities.

The Parent Association is a support for parents in the school.

The Parent Association can invite speakers to address the parents on issues which are topical or relevant.

The Parent Association is not a forum for complaint against either an individual teacher or parent. The Complaints Procedure is the mechanism for this.

See The National Parents Council website for further details. www.npc.ie

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