Parents' Roles in 3-Way Parent Interviews

3-WAY INTERVIEWS (PART 2)

(Adapted from school newsletter - 17 March 2017)

As we fast approach the end of our first term of 2017, teachers, students and parents have been wrapping up what’s proved to be a busy, yet exciting time of academic, sport and cultural achievement.

Parents in the Foundation Phase (Grade 1–3) have had the opportunity to sit with teachers and discuss their children’s progress this week, with a view to support and encouragement for the term ahead.

Parents in the Intermediate Phase (Grade 4-7) on the other hand, I trust, are anxiously awaiting the exciting opportunity to learn first-hand from their children about the learning experiences they encountered in this first term. 3-Way Parent Interviews are new to our school, but by no means new in the world of deeper-thinking education. An article in last week’s newsletter spoke to the benefits and motivations for 3-Way Parent Interviews and this week I’d like to take the liberty of speaking to your role, as the parent, in this most important liaison with your child on their journey of education.

“You are true partners in your child’s learning and growth, and pupil-led conferences provide you invaluable opportunity to stop, sit and really hear who your child is, and who they want to be. Your child will tell you what they’re proud of, and what they want to learn about. Especially for young tweens, that’s not a conversation that frequently happens organically. Make the most of the time they’re taking to open up to you, and respond with support, kindness and undivided attention. Student-led conferences are opportunities for both you and your child to connect, and feel empowered. It’s great for both of you to be in the room.” – Rachel Mark

The experience is designed for ownership, collaboration, and reflection. In preparation for a student-led interview, teachers and students are working hard.

3 Pieces of Advice for Your Child’s Interview

1. Be present for your child

It’s precious time for your child. Leave other siblings at home or with a friend if possible. Put your phone away. Take notes if you find that helpful.

2. Focus on growth

In a 3-Way Parent Interview, the student is meant to describe their learning and progress. They may identify and describe goals, show work and evidence of areas they have mastered, and share reflections upon their process of learning. Parents can keep their eyes on the big picture and look for noticeable areas of growth or improvement.

3. Schedule a follow-up

At these interviews, some conversations that parents may want to have with a teacher are inappropriate. For this reason, a scheduling sheet will be available and the teachers will schedule a separate appointment with parents only, early in the new term.

This is an opportunity NOT to be missed. We look forward to facilitating these important meetings with each and every one of our Grade 4 – 7 students and parents.