We value positive relationships with parents and carers to help develop better social and emotional skills in children. We know that when children are engaged with their learning, they attend school more regularly, leading to better long term outcomes.
For parenting and counselling services, visit the Family Support page, and for direction and clarity on regulations, processes and procedures at our school, read the Sydney Catholic School policies.
Getting Involved
As St Raphael’s, we recognise parents as the first educators of their child. With this in mind, we aim to provide many opportunities for parents to become involved in their child’s school life.
The most important way to be involved is by being positive and interested in their work and supportive of their teacher. Parents are also encouraged to attend school and class Masses and celebrations, help in the classroom, assist in the library and at various sporting and cultural events.
The School Advisory Council is selected by the principal and provides wisdom in relation to broader areas of challenge for the school community.
The council provides feedback, support and advice to the school principal and is accountable to the principal.
In addition to the School Advisory Council, each year parent representatives from each class are nominated by the parents to co-ordinate fundraising events for their class, and also meet with the principal each term to discuss various curriculum and other issues for their grade.
Reporting to Parents Regarding Children’s Progress
Communication between school and parents is considered to be of utmost importance in the education of the child. At St Raphael’s, the following process is followed:
- Parent/Teacher Evening/Follow Up Meet and Greet – Early Term 1
This evening followed up by a Meet and Greet interview are opportunities for parents and teachers to meet and discuss hopes and expectations for the year as a group and any issues or concerns. Teachers explain their routines and programs to parents who are encouraged to contribute in any way possible. - Parent / Teacher Interviews
Interviews are scheduled for parents during Term 2 and Term 4. These provide an opportunity for parents and teachers to share perceptions about the child’s learning and to jointly work at solving any problems that may be evident. Interviews may be initiated by either parents or teachers on a needs basis at other times throughout the year. - Communicating with St Raphael’s
Other ways we communicate with parents are through a fortnightly newsletter, the Compass student information system and app, emails, phone and social media. Parents can of course call to book in with a teacher when required.
