Recognising the important role of parents as first educators of their children, the Church has always encouraged them to take responsibility for educating and forming their children in accord with their beliefs.
"Catholic tradition teaches that God has bestowed on the family its own specific and unique educational mission. . . The educational task of the family and that of the school complement one another in many concrete areas." (Congregation for Catholic Education)
The Church, in expecting Catholic schools to develop as communities of faith and learning, encourages teachers to work closely with parents in support of their children's learning.
The Church regards the parish as a vital link in contributing to the partnership of home, school and Church in forming children in faith. This partnership can include preparing children to receive the sacraments, providing relationships education and supporting liturgical celebrations.
The Scottish Schools (Parental Involvement) Act 2006 was introduced to promote parental involvement in schools in various ways. One particular outcome of the Act is that schools will establish Parent Councils to represent the interests of parents. In a Catholic school the Parent Council must invite the local Bishop to nominate a co-opted member to represent the interests of the Church.
SCES has published a booklet - 'Supporting Partnership with Parents' - to provide advice for parents, schools and parishes on key aspects of the Act. This booklet contains exemplar letters which can be used by Parent Councils and Dioceses to seek and invite these Church nominees.
Church Nominees should be able to obtain a copy from the local Diocese. (Contact SCES if necessary.)
