Review of Parental Involvement Act published

The National Parent Forum of Scotland has published it's Review of the Impact of the Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006, recognising the benefits that the Act has achieved, but calling for further partnership working between parents and practitioners.

Joanna Murphy, Chair of the National Parent Forum of Scotland, said:

“This review has been an opportunity to research whether the 2006 legislation fits with today’s landscape. Although a great deal has been achieved, there is more to be done.

“I hope that this Review will allow all of us to continue to keep parents at the heart of their child’s learning. I will continue to strive for a political and legislative environment which champions the voice of parents.”

Launched today (Tuesday 23 May), the report, commissioned by the Scottish Government, makes a series of 38 recommendations to Government, national agencies, authorities and schools.

Key observations and messages include:

• A desire to improve and update key aspects of the Act and accompanying guidance
• A need to extend the legislation to cover the early years
• A requirement for further partnership working between parents and practitioners
• A need to protect and promote the role of the parent council
• A desire to further implement the Learning At Home strand of the Act

Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, who also attended the launch, welcomed the report and committed to considering the recommendations in the context of the Scottish Government's review of school governance.