Being Involved
Victorian government schools recognise that you have the first and most significant influence on your child’s learning and that your continued participation in their education is important if they are to achieve the best possible learning outcomes. It is well known that students with interested and involved parents do better at school. While you may be involved in your child’s learning at home, you can also contribute by participating in the school council, joining the parent club, or getting involved in less formal school activities. See: Being Involved
School councils
All Victorian government schools have a school council. The school council enables parents and others to be involved in governing the school. Councils have between six and 15 members. They include parents, the principal, staff, and sometimes community members. Parents do not need any particular qualifications or experience to take part and you can ask your school about training opportunities available for new school council members. See:
For advice on legislation and policy matters relating to school councils, contact the Department’s Community and Stakeholder Relations Branch at community.stakeholders@edumail.vic.gov.au
Alternatively, contact the Department’s regional office in your school’s area, see: Regional Offices
Parent clubs
Many Victorian government schools have a club or association for parents of children at the school. Parent clubs enable parents to participate and contribute to the wellbeing of their school community and the education of their child.
Call 03 9380 2158 or 1800 032 023 (freecall for country callers) or see Parent clubs
Volunteers in schools
Victorian government schools have volunteer programs allowing parents to participate directly in school activities. Schools determine how and when they will use volunteers.
Your child’s school might offer opportunities to be involved in canteen duty, excursions and events, reading and mathematics support, environment committees and cultural groups. See: Volunteers in Schools
Homework
Homework helps students by complementing and reinforcing classroom learning, fostering good lifelong learning and study habits, and providing an opportunity for students to be responsible for their own learning. Prep to Year 4 homework should not be seen as a chore. See: Homework