In the Apostolic Exhortation Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis pointed out, "school is not a substitute for parents but is complementary to them.” Therefore, he continued, in school education, collaboration between the various components of the educational community must never be lacking. Without frequent communication and without mutual trust, a community is not built and without a community it is not possible to educate.”

Research clearly demonstrates the significant influence parents have over their child’s engagement with learning and educational achievements. Analysis of this research has identified clear, measurable benefits for students when their parents are actively engaged in their learning. These studies show that the student is more likely to develop positive self-esteem, be motivated to learn, be confident about school and achieve to the best of their ability.

The good news for many working families is that current research suggests that it is what parents do at home that really counts. Being supportive of what teachers are doing, taking an active interest in what your child is learning at school and helping them relate this to the world beyond school can make a big difference

We value the parents of St Brigid’s. We thank you and encourage you to continue to:

• hold high expectations for your child;
• show interest in the things they are interested in;
• value learning and model the behaviours of successful learners;
• give specific, rather than general, praise; and
• establish routines that promote health, well-being and regular study.

And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:6-7

Yours in Faith, Justice and Learning