Making the difference – involving parents better in schools

Question 10

Do you agree that membership of a parent forum should be confined to parents (the broad definition) of children attending the school or individuals co-opted by the parent forum ? Should parents always be in the majority ?

"1”, “Yes - parents only and in the majority"

"2”, “No - See Question 4 - any tweaking within the existing School Board framework should have parents in the majority"

"3”, “No - the existing composition must continue, but not necessarily in the same numbers, but with parents in the majority and to continue in the context of a School Board - NOT a Parent Forum - MUST be Headteacher involvement"

"4”, “Yes"

"5”, “No - parents and co-opted members who would benefit the school"

"6”, “Parents should comprise at least 50% of forum (but quorum should also comprise 50% parents)"

"7”, “Should be parents of children at the school - they have an interest in the school"

"8”, “Not necessarily"

"9”, “As above - happy with School Board"

"10”, “Parents should be in the majority of whatever forum or group"

"11”, “School Boards have a majority of parents but by statute representatives from the wider community.  This is useful and should continue."

"12”, “"

"13”, “The local community should be represented.  Parents need not be the majority"

"14”, “Parents should always be in the majority with individuals co-opted on."

"15”, “No - still need non-parent co-opted but parents should be in majority.  What about staff and council?"

"16”, “Parents should be the majority but other parties should be represented and this should be an official requirement"

"17”, “Parents should be in majority which existing arrangements do not always permit.  Membership should not be confined to parents"

"18”, “Parents should always be in the majority but not confined just to parents."

"19”, “Yes - but this is already happening in schools now with School Boards"

"20”, “Yes - it is a parent body"

"21”, “Yes - parents and co-opted members
Yes - parents always in the majority"

"22”, “Members - parents in majority, co-opted members and staff and advised by HT"

"23”, “Anyone with an interest in the school should be able to attend meetings, but parents should be in the majority"

"24”, “"

"25”, “Yes"

"26”, “The balance offered by present School Boards is satisfactory"

"27”, “Parents should be in the majority in any arrangement"

"28”, “N/A"

"29”, “All were concerned that if a Parent Forum was made up exclusively of parents this would create insecurity and division rather than uniting parents and staff.  A healthy school should have input from other members of the community.  Parents should be in the majority but there should definitely be members from the community forming part of the forum"

"30”, “Since against proposals remaining question are mainly redundant"

"31”, “"

"32”, “No - do not approve of proposed Bill"

"33”, “There is the need to retain teaching staff involvement as at present, but parents should be in the majority"

"34”, “I do not agree with parent forums"

"35”, “I do not agree with parent forums in the first place"

"36”, “This could mean a wide range of people who do not have links to the school and a lack of continuity"

"37”, “Don't agree with parent forum but to answer the question parents should always be in the majority"

"38”, “We think parents should always be in the majority, but that membership should be flexible because in small schools there might be only 2 or 3 parents altogether"

"39”, “"

"40”, “Yes"

"41”, “Do not want parent forums in any shape or form.  Any structure should only ever be confined to parents of children attending the school and parent should be in the majority"

"42”, “The majority of School Board members should be parents, the facility to co-opt members of the local community should continue.  There should be at least on teacher representative.  The Head Teacher should continue to be required to attend as an Advisor."

"43”, “Yes"

"44”, “Yes and Yes"

"45”, “Feel it is necessary that parents (the broad definition) should be in the majority, but forums should allow for co-option of other individuals.  It is necessary that staff are represented also and that the Head Teacher has a role to play within any forum"

"46”, “Yes as with existing School Boards"

"47”, “Parents/guardians with co-opted members.  Parents always in majority"

"48”, “Parents should be in the majority but with option to have other interested parties involved"

"49”, “"

"50”, “"

"51”, “Yes and No - Best people to make a positive impact on the children's learning.  Parents may be these people"

"52”, “Parents should always form the majority but to be fully effective staff and management also need to be included.  The Board should have the freedom to democratically choose co-options regardless of whether they are staff, parents or members of the local community"

"53”, “Parents should be in the majority although guidelines say only one parent is necessary!"

"54”, “"

"55”, “No - Guardians should be included and enthusiastic clergy"

"56”, “Yes"

"57”, “Yes, Yes"

"58”, “No -we think staff member or members and the Head Teacher should be required to attend.  Co-opted community members have a useful input too.  Yes, parent should be in the majority."

"59”, “"

"60”, “Yes"

"61”, “The present representation system works well in that it brings together parents, co-opted individuals and members of staff all of whom make a valuable contribution.  Again the existing structure provides for parents being in the majority which should continue.  I would hope that the wording of this question does not indicate that these decisions have already been taken"

"62”, “"

"63”, “I agree"

"64”, “Yes.  Yes"

"65”, “"

"66”, “"

"67”, “We believe that co-opted members of the community can play a valuable role in the work of parent forums but that parents should always be in the majority."

"68”, “Parents only.  The power to co-opt already exists"

"69”, “We agree that parents should be in the majority in any set up but we believe it is important to have the teaching staff represented for their expertise."

"70”, “(a) No - the Board felt membership of a parent forum should not be confined to parents and co-opted members.  We felt there was a need to involve advisors, teachers rep etc  (b) It was felt parents should always be in the majority"

"71”, “"

"72”, “"

"73”, “"

"74”, “No - open to wider community - also need teachers there to promote partnership"

"75”, “Yes - parents should be in the majority"

"76”, “I would hope that parents would be the majority but not all"

"77”, “Yes"

"78”, “Parents in the majority.  However the involvement of the Head Teacher goes without saying"

"79”, “Staff representatives also have a useful input and with new community schools there are likely to be more staff involved in a school.  Community ethos should be inclusive.  Parents should be in the majority, but if there is to be voting for representation, staff who are also parents should have a parent, rather than a staff vote."

"80”, “No - The Scottish Executive talks about inclusion, yet is prepared to abolish a forum which currently includes parents, staff, pupils and others.  Most parents being allowed on Boards would address this issue far more easily."

"81”, “IF there was to be a parent forum then I would have no problem with co-opted members as they work well in School Boards as they exist at present"

"82”, “It is imperative that members include the Head Teacher, Teacher representatives, Local Councillors and co-opted community members with parent members in the majority"

"83”, “"

"84”, “Current composition of Boards works well.  Head Teacher should always be represented"

"85”, “Parents should be the majority of members of any new system.  School Boards currently co-opt non-parent members and have not seen any evidence that this does not work well.  Their contribution has often proved valuable, but parents should still have the final say."

"86”, “Yes to both parents and co-opted, also believe teachers should be members and support staff"

"87”, “"

"88”, “Yes parents should be in the majority however there should be a wider opportunity to co-opt other memberes, (this can be done through the existing framework)"

"89”, “"

"90”, “"

"91”, “A mix as at present, with parents in the majority."

"92”, “We, as a school board, representing the views of parents whose children attend (our) school, are unanimously rejecting the new proposal, and are against abolishment of the Scottish School Board 1988 Act."

"93”, “Parents should be in the majority."

"94”, “Yes, this would be a sensible way forward."

"95”, “No to part one of question - parents & co-opted members
Yes to part two of question - parents in majority"

"96”, “"

"97”, “Definitely include co-opted members (provide outside view) not confined to parents only - not necessary to have parental majority."

"98”, “part 1 no - you require local community involvement.
part 2 yes."

"99”, “Not applicable"

"100”, “Not confined but in the majority."

"101”, “Yes.  Yes."

"102”, “We do not agree with parent forums and are happy with existing membership of school boards."

"103”, “I believe a staff representative should also be involved.  Parents should always be in the majority."

"104”, “Parents would be in the majority in most cases.  However co-opted individuals are a valuable part of a school board, having wide experiences co-opted members often include head teachers, local ministers, etc."

"105”, “part 1 - should be able to co-opt.
part 2 - yes."

"106”, “Yes to both."

"107”, “It should be an equal mix."

"108”, “Parents should always be in the majority, but co-opted members should also be present."

"109”, “N / A"

"110”, “Parents should be in the majority, but it is important to maintain contacts out with the school."

"111”, “These forums are ultimately for the good of the children so obviously the parents should be in the majority incorporating every class from nursery upwards.  However co-opted individuals which may include grand parents, ex-parents or just interested locals with the good of the school at heart can bring great expertise and experience to any forum and should be encouraged."

"112”, “"

"113”, “Yes"

"114”, “No, the head teacher is an important member of the Board / Forum."

"115”, “Yes, however, head teachers, teacher members, and community members have a very valuable contribution to make."

"116”, “Yes"

"117”, “Parents should be in the majority but membership should not be confined to them."

"118”, “Yes"

"119”, “Parents should be majority but not confined"

"120”, “Yes"

"121”, “Yes, and parents should be in the majority."

"122”, “Yes, the majority should be parents, however - it should not be confined to parents (e.g. grand-parents as they may have more time)."

"123”, “Parent & co-opted individuals... with parents in the majority."

"124”, “It should be left to each school to decide the make-up of Board and parents needn't be in the majority"

"125”, “Yes parents should have the majority but with teachers to also be included."

"126”, “Ideally parents should be in the majority but many parents may consider it beneficial to be appropriately represented and this could alter the balance but provide a more useful representation for parents."

"127”, “Parents should always be in the majority but current system which involves Head Teacher staff, councillor and co-opted members should be continued."

"128”, “Blank"

"129”, “Shouldn't be confined but parents MUST ALWAYS be in the majority."

"130”, “The present system is satisfactory.  The present inclusion of staff members on school boards is seen as a very positive and helpful feature."

"131”, “We think parents should be in the majority.
We think there should be guidelines on membership numbers for parents / co-opted others."

"132”, “Blank"

"133”, “Parents of children at a school should always have majority."

"134”, “Yes"

"135”, “No because co-opted members have always brought a wide range of views to the School Board which have been very beneficial.  Parents should always be in the majority."

"136”, “Blank"

"137”, “Part 1 - Yes
Part 2 - Yes"

"138”, “Part 1 - Yes
Part 2 - Yes"

"139”, “Yes and Yes"

"140”, “No - confining membership to parents opposes the idea of the school being in the heart of the community and developing the children’s idea of citizenship."

"141”, “Yes"

"142”, “Existing board composition works fine.  External members give new ideas."

"143”, “No.  Need teachers and members of community.  Parents should be majority."

"144”, “Yes - parents should be in majority."

"145”, “"

"146”, “"

"147”, “No.  Do not agree with forums."

"148”, “Yes both options, but with parental majority."

"149”, “Yes (Both)"

"150”, “a) yes   b) yes"

"151”, “N / A
We are happy with the composition of the school boards which include parents and co-opted elected members."

"152”, “Not in favour of parent forum - support status quo and existing School Board representation arrangements."

"153”, “Yes"

"154”, “I disagree, should be as the present  pta boards."

"155”, “Blank"

"156”, “Parents should form majority, but membership should not be confined to parents."

"157”, “N / A"

"158”, “Yes
Yes"

"159”, “"

"160”, “Status quo.  i.e. parents in majority but also have teaching staff involved."

"161”, “No - there should be a requirement for attendance by teaching staff / senior management, with parents in the majority however."

"162”, “Should be confined to parents of children attending the school or individuals co-opted by said parents.  Preferable parents are in majority."

"163”, “Yes - there should be both parents and co-opted members.  Parents should be in the majority."

"164”, “In any parental involvement group I think that the parents should always be in the majority but that there should also be staff representation and (in denominational schools) church representation.  I think this consultation should have promoted partnerships between parents, pupils and staff but the idea of parent forums doesn't seem to have that at its heart."

"165”, “Not willing to answer 'loaded' questions about something unnecessary."

"166”, “"

"167”, “Membership should not be confined solely to parents.  Although we agree that they should be in the majority you must have the professional input from the Head teacher/staff and co-opted and community members bring an added valuable perspective."

"168”, “Yes we agree with the above which appears to maintain the status quo."

"169”, “Yes. Yes."

"170”, “Parents should be in a majority but it is essential that there is co-operation and involvement from the Education Authority, the Head Teacher and the staff"

"171”, “Yes parents should be in the majority however there should be a wider opportunity to co-opt other members (this can be done through the existing framework)"

"172”, “Parents should always be in the majority.  There should also be plenty of scope for other individuals to be involved."

"173”, “No but majority representation should be parents of children attending the school.  There has to be a community link to enable inclusion to be adequately practised, therefore wider community representation would be of advantage to the forum."

"174”, “While parents are by far the most important, schools represent the whole community.  It is important that all voices are heard = teachers, pupils, local business and community as well.  Head Teacher also important."

"175”, “Parents should be in the majority and co-options should be senior pupils - it is their school and they deserve consultation.  If change to forum this could be more difficult to maintain - another reason for not changing to a forum."

"176”, “Could it still be a parent forum if there were no parents involved?"

"177”, “Quite happy with the current rules for composition of School Boards."

"178”, “As with School Boards, staff members and local community members should be included.  Parents should be in the majority."

"179”, “Yes - we agree that memberships should be parents' with others co-opted at the behest of parents.  Parents should always be in the majority."

"180”, “We believe parents should be in the majority, however membership should not be confined only to parents.  Without representatives from teaching staff, co-opted members from the community and local councillors, School Boards would lose out on experience and knowledge that is vital to its successful functioning."

"181”, “"

"182”, “Parents should always be in the majority but the input of co-opted individuals is also very important."

"183”, “No we agree that parents should be in the majority but feel that a teacher representative should be retained to encourage and promote good communication between the school and parent body.  The current system of having the HT present as Adviser works well and should be maintained.  Co-opted community reps should also be encouraged as they have a valuable role to play."

"184”, “No applicable."

"185”, “"

"186”, “Yes parents or co-opted.  Yes parents in majority"

"187”, “Both  - Yes"

"188”, “Parents should always be in the majority, but as with School Boards at present, H.T., co-opted members, staff and councillor is an absolute necessity."

"189”, “Parents should be in the majority."

"190”, “Yes.  Parents to maintain majority position."

"191”, “"

"192”, “Yes"

"193”, “Parents always in the majority.  Should also have members from community if they wish."

"194”, “No a parent forum should include the Head Teacher and/or HT Representative and it should also include the councillor, although we agree that parents should be in the majority."

"195”, “Yes"

"196”, “Parents shouldn't be in the majority.  A balanced view of teachers, community workers etc encouraged."

"197”, “Co-opts are useful.  Parents should always be in the majority."

"198”, “No parents do not have the necessary skills or knowledge to carry out this function.  If the forum is confined to parents where is the partnership? Representation of parents, school employees and the community should be actively encouraged."

"199”, “The present membership covers a broad spectrum of community representation with parent members in the majority and this works well.  We would wish any forum to continue in this form."

"200”, “No - teachers should be involved too and Yes - parents in the majority."

"201”, “Yes parents should be in the majority."

"202”, “Membership of the forum should not necessarily be composed of parents  It is also strongly felt that senior school staff should be in attendance."

"203”, “No we do not feel that parent forums are the way forward. No forum or School Board can operate without the input of the Head Teacher or staff member."

"204”, “Yes. Yes"

"205”, “No.  Staff and Headteacher involvement crucial.
Parents should be in majority.  Co-opted members e.g. school chaplain should still be welcome."

"206”, “HT NEEDS to be present - duty to be present.
Ideal Teacher on Board too - some not interested.  Teachers want Board to help them - then they must be on Board - works both ways.
Parents (carer/guardian) are eligible.
Need clerical and councillor member on board."

"207”, “Blank"

"208”, “Parents, yes.
Headteacher as a right.
Minister (church) as a right
Councillor as a right
Teacher - would be beneficial although may not be interested,"

"209”, “Mixture of parents & individuals co-opted by parent forum.  Parents may not be objective."

"210”, “No - too narrow, would lose benefit of educationalist expertise if no school representative.  Catholic School Ethos has been proved to bring higher achievement - this must be protected by Church representative on any body representing the school."

"211”, “The membership should be parents and co-opted members but parents should always be in the majority."

"212”, “Not entirely.  School & council reps should have a right to attend."

"213”, “The membership structure of the current School Board is well balanced:  Parents, teachers, Headteacher, local councillor and co-opted members.  Co-opted members whilst desirable should not be compulsory. It  would probably be preferable if parents were in the majority, but again this should not be compulsory."

"214”, “The latter, with parent in majority."

"215”, “Yes agree."

"216”, “No"

"217”, “As with the existing Board - the parents should be in the majority."

"218”, “Yes"

"219”, “No.  We have valued the support of our co-opted members.  Also teacher representation & the Head Teacher in an advisory role help to inform the school board of issues relevant to the school."

"220”, “No"

"221”, “We agree that parents should be in the majority."

"222”, “Existing provision a good balance.
Parents should be in majority."

"223”, “No.  We believe the existing school board approach including parent representatives, the head teacher, staff representatives and co-opted members best represents the stakeholders in the school."

"224”, “"

"225”, “No"

"226”, “It should be parents AND co-opted members but parents should always be in the majority."

"227”, “No it should include staff from the school."

"228”, “No we do not agree that it should be confined to parents.  But any group formed, parents should be in the majority."

"229”, “No"

"230”, “Blank"

"231”, “Blank"

"232”, “"

"233”, “Parents and individuals co-opted by the parent forum.  Parents should always be in the majority."

"234”, “We still wish to have co-opted members, but parents should still be in the majority."

"235”, “Yes"

"236”, “Yes - parents and non parents (school staff & local authority involvement)"

"237”, “"

"238”, “Yes - the present system works very well."

"239”, “Yes: senior pupils could also attend.  But majority must be parents.
Also include Head Teacher and Teacher's Representative."

"240”, “Head Teacher should definitely have right to attend, and preferably community involvement, but parents should be in the majority.
Some parents feel they would be LESS likely to attend if school not  represented.  What would be the point if just parents discussing issues in isolation?"

"241”, “Yes    /    Yes"

"242”, “No.  Headteacher and staff involvement is required.  Would like the opportunities to try for outside help.
Yes.  Parental majority."

"243”, “Yes - parents should be in the majority - however present structure suitable.
Main function of school is learning and teaching therefore forum should focus on those concerned directly."

"244”, “Yes, but also feel there should be limits on parents who are also teachers (at any school) as they may have a conflict of interest."

"245”, “Parents should ALWAYS be in the majority .Head Teacher MUST be fully involved.
Local Councillors have a very useful role to play.  Co-opted community members add breadth & depth to existing boards & must be retained as an option.  Individuals by invitation."

"246”, “"

"247”, “"

"248”, “Parents should be in the majority - we do not see any need for a community member.  We feel in a Catholic school the church member should be a member of the clergy"

"249”, “Yes - membership should be confined to parents of children attending the school.  Parents shouldn't necessarily be in the majority."

"250”, “Co-opted - Parents majority"

"251”, “No - parents should be in the majority but the forum should consist of all groups involved with the school."

"252”, “"

"253”, “"

"254”, “The majority of the membership should be parents"

"255”, “It should be parents and co-opted embers with parents always being in the majority."

"256”, “Parents should certainly be in the majority"

"257”, “Parents should always be in the majority but some co-opting allowed."

"258”, “Must always be in the majority - yes."

"259”, “Membership should be broader than parents and must include teacher representation.  Parents should probably be in the majority."

"260”, “The make up of the forum should be the same as the current system"

"261”, “Yes representation from the pupil council as required.  Co-opted members from teaching staff, or the wider community with parental majority."

"262”, “Yes"

"263”, “Disagree/Agree - teachers/parents/community representatives all should have involvement and parents should always be in majority"

"264”, “Parents should be in the majority but there must be representation from all school life from pupils to staff.  Head Teacher attendance should be considered compulsory as this gives invaluable advice to any parent body.  You must have communication between all views for a smooth running school."

"265”, “1.  We feel the Head Teacher and local councillor should be included within the membership.
2.  Not necessary"

"266”, “Yes.Yes."

"267”, “"

"268”, “"

"269”, “Parents should always be in the majority - good to have teaching staff involved though."

"270”, “No"

"271”, “Parents should always be in the majority but also attended by the Head Teacher or deputy and co-opted members."

"272”, “No - we consider that the involvement by members of the church, teaching staff and co-opted members is fundamental to providing a balance to a School Board."

"273”, “Parents should ideally be in the majority on a School Board"

"274”, “A school is part of the community and as such should have representatives from the wider community as well as parents.  You can't make parents become involved so the majority question is no applicable."

"275”, “Parents should be in the majority but we benefit enormously from the input of our co-opted members.  Frankly, if there is no staff involvement, what on earth is the point of meeting anyway?"

"276”, “I do not think that membership of the Board should only be allowed/confined to parents as communities often have very valuable members who are an asset to the Board as long as the voting system is maintained we can be sure that the parents are happy as to who is representing them."

"277”, “No - do not agree with abolishing present system.  it is useful to have a community member as part of the Board and a school staff member.  Parents should be in the majority"

"278”, “no - the current School Board model works well and involves those with vested interest in the school including the community.  It is a very representative model."

"279”, “Yes - parents should be in the majority"

"280”, “"

"281”, “"

"282”, “No & No.
It is very hard to get people interested.
Time is the key.  Retired Grand Parents would be ideal."

"283”, “Membership should include co-opted members, such as priest / community police. to ensure a wider contact with the community however it is agreed that parents should always be in the majority."

"284”, “Part 1 - majority (4) responded No with comments: staff representative is important as is active involvement of willing experienced members of the community, similar to current legislation.  Minority (1) stated YES.
Part 2 - majority (3) stated Yes, minimum 75%."

"285”, “"

"286”, “NB It is the view of (our) school board that these questions are too prescriptive in nature and do not give an opportunity to address some fundamental matters raised by the proposed new bill as drafted.  Please see our response in the additional comments box."

"287”, “No"

"288”, “We already have both of these incorporated under the current PTA and school board constitution."

"289”, “"

"290”, “"

"291”, “We, as a school board, representing the views of parents whose children attend (our)Primary School, are unanimously rejecting the new proposal, and are against abolishment of the Scottish School Board 1988 Act."

"292”, “"

"293”, “"

"294”, “We are surprised at this question. Without parents and their children there would be no school. We believe strongly that parents should be in a majority. There should be representation from school staff."

"295”, “If the parental forum was limited to parent membership, there might be insufficient interest from parents to set up a functional forum. Another strength of School Boards was that the membership brought together parents, staff and co-opted members, which brought a broad perspective to the business of the Board. Therefore, membership of the parental forum, if it need be formed, should not be restricted to parents. As with the School Board, parents should always be in the majority."

"296”, “"

"297”, “No.  Parents, staff and members of the community should all be involved especially in rural areas where a school is the focal point of a community.  Parents should be in the majority.

"

"298”, “"

"299”, “"

"300”, “"

"301”, “"

"302”, “"

"303”, “"

"304”, “Membership of parent forums should not be confined to parents of the children at the school but include representation of the Headteacher and teaching staff.  Parents should be in the majority for School Boards and PTAs in order to provide the school community with a balance of representation and support.

"

"305”, “"

"306”, “We agree that parents should be in the majority in any set up but we believe it is important to have the teaching staff represented for their expertise.
"

"307”, “"

"308”, “"

"309”, “"

"310”, “Yes to both parts of the question. (Assuming that by parents you include carers as well.)"

"311”, “The composition of the School Board works effectively. One amendment to the existing legislation could be to allow Boards to determine how many parents can be elected within set guidelines.  The existing merge of parents, staff, Head Teacher, local Councillor, Church (where appropriate) and community should not be altered.
"

"312”, “"

"313”, “"

"314”, “Yes"

"315”, “Too many problems with parents having 'hidden agendas' !  Staff members/co-opted members are essential."

"316”, “We think that parents should be in the majority in any parent representative body.  A cross-section of the school and its community should also be represented, including the Head Teacher, representatives of teaching and other school staff and pupils in secondary schools."

"317”, “Parent forums should not be confined to parents or co-opted individuals.  The Head Teacher or Head Teacher's representative should be a member as should the local councillor.  Teacher representation is also desirable.  It is important to maintain co-opted members from the community to progress the wider involvement of school in the community."

"318”, “Do not agree with Bill"

"319”, “Similar to the board a percentage of parents, co-opted and teachers.  There must be an input from all sides to ensure a cross information system."

"320”, “No - this is supposed to be a partnership between staff, parents, pupils and the wider community so all should attend, but yes, parents should have the majority."

"321”, “Parents should be in the majority but very important to include representatives from the community."

"322”, “The current system of HT, staff, co-opted members and councillor works well with parents in the majority.  All give valuable input from varied backgrounds."

"323”, “Parents must be in the majority but with the involvement of the school a statutory rule."

"324”, “No we are content with the present system whereby the parents have strong representation but that representation is mediated by other members."

"325”, “It depends on who you have willing to serve on the Board or forum.  If not enough parents come forward you need to consider other options."

"326”, “Yes - parents should be in majority but members should include parents teachers and co-opted members from community."

"327”, “Parent forums are discussion groups, not action and decision making groups.  They can in no way be a substitute for the formal body of the School Board which has statutory rights and functions.  Much more should be made of the current part played by parents on School Boards rather than of the promotion of a much weaker body."

"328”, “Parents only is too narrow.  We need the whole team of parents, staff, pupils and community reps."

"329”, “Yes - as at present parents always have the majority at meetings but we also feel co-opting people gives Board the depth of experience to be effective."

"330”, “Yes and Yes"

"331”, “Parents must be in majority but must have staff representation and co-opted members from the community.  The local councillor plays a vital part in the School Board and his/her presence should be maintained."

"332”, “Boards currently benefit from having the option of co-opting non parents where there is an advantage in doing so  However it is important that parents continue to be in the majority."

"333”, “Individuals should be able to be co-opted onto parent forum but membership of parents should always be in the majority."

"334”, “Yes to assure that the children's interests are always paramount to the proceedings."

"335”, “A mixture of parents and co-opted members."

"336”, “A parents forum should consist of parents or carers of the child.  Friends or relatives may attend meetings at the discretion and responsibility of the organisers but friends and relatives cannot vote.  If parents wish to invite teachers, they should do so but such meetings should be conducted in an orderly manner."

"337”, “Along the lines held.  Parents in majority."

"338”, “Should be confined to parents of children attending the school or individuals co-opted by said parents.  Preferable parents are in the  majority."

"339”, “Value in co-opted members, parents in the majority."

"340”, “"

"341”, “We are surprised at this question.  Without parents and their children there would be no school.  We believe strongly that parents should be in a majority.  There should be representation from school staff."

"342”, “I do believe that parents should be in the majority as they are in current school boards.  I feel members of the community have a valuable contribution to make to a running of a school."

"343”, “Parents should be the majority of any system. School Boards currently co-opt non-parent members and have not seen any evidence that this does not work well. Their contribution has often proved valuable. Schools and decisions made by schools affect whole communities. Therefore, the wider community representation is essential. The Catholic Church has, and must continue to have, a vote in Catholic schools."

"344”, “If the proposed model is enacted, we agree with the suggestion that parents should be in a majority.  We see value in continuing to have teacher member, and Church representation in a denominational school."

"345”, “We support the current School Board system approach of ensuring membership is confined to parents of children attending the school or individuals co-opted by the School Board.  Parents are always currently the majority but any sensible School Board will always invite the Head Teacher and often the local councillor to attend."

"346”, “Partnership working with the school is an essential element and therefore the parent forum must include school representatives as well as representatives from the community.  Parents should always be in the majority."

"347”, “No.  We believe that there should be staff and pupil representation as of right (i.e. not just through co-opting). Staff representation is critical to the development of a partnership between parents and the school.  Parents are much less likely to attend. "

"348”, “Whether it be parent forums or modernised School Boards we believe parents of children attending the school should be in the majority and either elected or appointed to strengthen the breadth of representation.  We wish the ability to co-opt other members e.g. from the local community and are very firmly of the view that representatives of the teaching staff should have their own position designated on the Board.  The latter in particular serves to strengthen the partnership between school and parents and aids parental understanding of the many issues facing education and teaching staff today.

See below for comments on Head Teacher and Councillor.
"

"349”, “While parents should always be in the majority, membership of the forum should be open to community representation. "

"350”, “Should parents always be in the majority?  One of the strengths of the current organisational structure of School Boards is the fact that, in addition to parents, a number of other stakeholders such as teachers, co-opted members and Councillors are directly involved and engaged in the wide ranging work of the School Board.  Our School Board includes the Head Girl/Boy of the School, the PTA Chairperson and staff representation from the schools formal community activities.
If only parents are involved, who are they going to engage with, or will the Parental Forum be no more than a talking shop, with no clear outputs?  If a more inclusive approach is subsequently adopted, with a wider membership, we would agree that parents should be in the majority.
"

"351”, “"

"352”, “"

"353”, “"

"354”, “Why should the parents be in the majority'?  We are trusting our children to the professionals and therefore should respect them in their roles.  All involvement should be seen as a democracy and not as majority rule, which could be dangerous in some environments.  Co-opted members have proved to be a real asset on the school boards giving another perspective."

"355”, “We believe that parent forums would benefit from having the flexibility to allow others to take part but should decide for themselves who the extra members should be.  We are particularly in favour of co-opted local non-parents and teachers being involved. We also value the presence of the head teacher as an advisor.  We do believe each individual forum should decide for itself on non parent invitees.  We believe parents should be in a majority and should be free in their constitution to call occasional parent only meetings if necessary."

"356”, “"

"357”, “Having only parents may narrow viewpoints, but they should be in the majority. The School board system is that parents, staff and community members are all involved."

"358”, “Parents (using the broad definition) should be in the majority, but if Parent Forums are to promote involvement in school and/or education there must also be representation from the school - including Teachers and Head Teachers. Involvement of local Councillors is also invaluable."

"359”, “"

"360”, “Parents should always by in the majority, plus co-opted members (where possible) e.g. small schools."

"361”, “- No.
- Yes parents must always be in majority.
- The involvement of co-opted members, local councillors and teacher representatives must continue, but to do so School Boards must be retained for reasons stated earlier.
- You need to have serious people for serious administration.  People who are prepared to commit time to deliver a considered view on important management matters such as the annual Improvement Plan and Standards and Quality Report.  In a way, need a certain type of person for the School Board.
- This Board discusses many issues and considers papers such as this. Forum if existed would not bother, nor would those School Boards who are less effective, a non-elected Forum could prevent discussion by Head about sensitive confidential issues.
- Members of the Board must exercise a degree of confidentiality. If had 'talking shop' would not be able to raise half the questions.
"

"362”, “NO. It would be a horrendous act to exclude the Headteacher and Staff representative from membership.  Under the present School Board system we are very fortunate to be able to co-opt membership from the wider community for their wealth of experience.

YES. We do believe parents should always be in the majority

"

"363”, “"

"364”, “"

"365”, “"

"366”, “N / A"

"367”, “"

"368”, “"

"369”, “No - not just confined to parents, although in majority.  Content with 'co-option' arrangements as they stand in 1988 Act."

"370”, “Parents from the school is best.  The 'odd' expert who could help the school could be co-opted if necessary"

"371”, “No - it should not be confined to parents.  Teacher reps and the HT's advice provide valuable information.  Parents should always be in the majority as is the status quo here in (our Region)."

"372”, “Parents in majority.  Other representatives from church/community provide valuable input."

"373”, “N/A"

"374”, “Yes to both - parents in the majority"

"375”, “Flexible but based on the current composition."

"376”, “No - it should be open to a larger group from the community and teachers - equal balance."

"377”, “We have no answer."

"378”, “Parents and specific co-opted members are suitable for Boards.  Parents should remain in the majority to avoid co-opted members taking control."

"379”, “Parents should be the majority of any system. School Boards currently co-opt non-parent members and have not seen any evidence that this does not work well.  Their contribution has often proved valuable.  Schools and decisions made by schools affect whole communities.  Therefore the wider community representation is essential. The Catholic Church has and must continue to have a voice in Catholic schools."

"380”, “Yes - however there needs to be a person/persons available to advise the forum.  The statutory rights of the church should be upheld.  Representatives from parents, community and church and education with parents in the majority."

"381”, “Is this not the system we have at present on School Boards.  The teacher, community and religious input is also essential but why change to a system which is already in place under a different name."

"382”, “No - it should represent all, e.g. parents, teachers, pupils, authority, council etc and parents should be in the majority."

"383”, “The majority of forums should always be parents but School Boards work successfully with Head Teachers, teachers and members co-opted from the community.  This should remain and be developed by adding PTA reps and a pupil representative."

"384”, “No and Yes - Some children have extended family members who take an active part in everything from the school run, after school care and also fundraising events, school concerts and outings etc.  They should definitely be allowed to partake in a parent forum.  I do believe though that parents should form the majority."

"385”, “Yes - parents must be in the majority."

"386”, “Most definitely it should be parents with children at the school.  They are in the best position to make the best decisions without outside influence and yes they should be in the majority."

"387”, “Co-opted members from the local community should be encouraged but not at the expense of parents."

"388”, “Parents always in majority but HT, staff, Councillors, essential and co-opted members."

"389”, “Should not be confined to parents only, and parents should not necessarily be in the majority."

"390”, “By implication parent forums should comprise of parents and parents in majority."

"391”, “No - parent forums should include a percentage of parents, co-opted and teacher members.  There must be an input for all sides to ensure a consensus."

"392”, “I think it should in the main be confined to parents."

"393”, “Parents/Carers is majority.  Need co-opted members for balance and helpful input."

"394”, “Parents should be in the majority but community members and school management team should be included."

"395”, “Yes - but there is requirement for co-opted member such as church representative."

"396”, “Same as Boards - parents should be in majority.  HTs should attend as should Church rep."

"397”, “No - there has to be a balance - more so if community schools are to be developed."

"398”, “Parents must be in the majority if it's a parental forum. Co-opted members - church reps."

"399”, “Should not be confined to parents of children attending school - should be a mix and as a School Board"

"400”, “It should be a mix of people but as a School Board."

"401”, “No"

"402”, “The majority should be parents but others could be co-opted."

"403”, “"

"404”, “We would wish that membership of a parent forum could include individuals co-opted by the forum but that parents should always be in the majority."

"405”, “The purpose of these groups is to improve the educational attainment of their school.  Accordingly, this should include as many relevant people as necessary.  The current Board model of parents, teachers and co-opted members from the community works satisfactorily at present and there is not need for significant change, although consideration should be given for pupil members at all schools.
"

"406”, “No.  We value the attendance of the head teacher and members of staff.  Parents should be in the majority.
"

"407”, “Parents should always be in the majority, but it would be useful to be able to co-opt on members of the community. This already happens on many School Boards and is an invaluable link to the wider community to which the school belongs. It may also be useful at various times to co-opt on a representative of the Police or Local Health provider, depending on the particular issues within the school."

"408”, “"

"409”, “No.  The present makeup of School Boards is ideal.  I would agree however that the numbers involved do not require to be so regimented.  It is essential however that parents remain in the majority and that the Headteacher must be involved as at present."

"410”, “"

"411”, “"

"412”, “"

"413”, “"

"414”, “Blank"

"415”, “"

"416”, “"

"417”, “"

"418”, “"

"419”, “Membership should be confined to parents and to co-opted individuals but there must be a mechanism allow to engagement with the Head Teacher.  This may be by their being in attendance.  Without the Head Teacher, the work of any parent forum will be in a vacuum and largely meaningless."

"420”, “"

"421”, “"

"422”, “"

"423”, “The draft bill does not confine membership to parents of children who attend a school and in fact proposes that only one parent is required to establish a parental forum. There is no involvement for staff representation or community members unless co-opted. It is vital that staff continue to be directly involved to enable parents to fully understand the quality of the standard of education, specific issues which affect the staff or pupils and enable parents to provided a supportive role to the school as and when required.

It is important that parents always be the majority of members."

"424”, “We believe that parents in the school should be the majority party. It is essential that education professionals are represented on the board and the HT present in an advisory capacity.  Co-opting individuals from the wider community allows broader consultation and broadens representation. In the upper secondary school (16yrs+) it may be appropriate to have a pupil representative. "

"425”, “"

"426”, “The Structure of the Forum should consist of parents, co-opted members, Headteacher, Councillor and a Teacher representative. We feel it is important to maintain co-opted members from community in order to progress the wider functioning of school in the community."

"427”, “We do not think that membership should be confined to parents of children at the school,, but consider it important that parents should be in the majority.  Co-option of members with particular expertise of community involvement would be advantageous.
"

"428”, “One of the strengths of the current organizational structure of School Boards is the fact that in addition to parents, a number of other stakeholders such as teachers, co-opted members and Councillors are directly involved and engaged in the wide ranging work of the School Board.  Our School Board includes the Head Girl/Boy of the School, the PTA Chairperson and staff representation from the school's formal community activities.

If only parents are involved, who are they going to engage with, or will the Parental Forum be no more than a talking shop, with no clear outputs?

If a more inclusive approach is subsequently adopted, with a wider membership, we would agree that parents should be in the majority.
"

"429”, “No. Parents should be in the majority and there should be teacher representatives and co-opted members as per the existing school board structure."

"430”, “The term 'Parent Forum' indicates that parents should be the majority of those persons invited to participate in the forum. Co-opted individuals invited from the community should not exceed one third of the members of the forum."

"431”, “We do not feel that this question is relevant to a workable parent forum, which would be more of an event than an autonomous body - please note our answers to previous questions.  We do feel that parents need to remain in the majority on modified School Boards, but also to retain flexible co-opting and invitation rights."

"432”, “Yes, parents should be in the majority, but we feel that it is important for both the school and local community to be represented. The school - especially Head teacher - should be present as of right. Also co-opting of members should follow strict procedures and screening to ensure they are there for the right reasons."

"433”, “Value in co-opted members.  Parents in majority"

"434”, “Whilst parents should always be in the majority, membership of the forum should not be confined to parents and co-opted individuals.  The Board believes that if the forum is to ensure communication between the parents, school and wider community, teaching staff, councillors and community representatives, for example from the Church, play a vital role.  The Board believes that membership and rights of attendance should continue on the same basis as at present."

"435”, “No.  Membership should not be confined to parents of children attending the school.  Lack of teacher representation could lead to a dangerous lack of communication.  Additionally, as. a Catholic school, we would always want church representatives to belong to groups concerned with our school because we view issues from a different perspective.  What if on any given year a forum consisted of no Catholic parents?  Then the Church's role could be excluded altogether! In a Catholic school!  Unthinkable!"

"436”, “Again, taking into consideration the fact that we do not agree with the repeal of the 1988 Act or with the bill and the establishment of parent forums in the first place, we think staff and head teacher should be entitled to attend as well as individuals co-opted by the parents' representative body.  Parents should be in the majority."

"437”, “Disagree
- Partnership working with the school is an essential element and therefore the parent forum must include school representatives as well as representatives from the community.
- Parents should always be in the majority.
"

"438”, “The existing arrangements are generally satisfactory.  Parent members are in the majority under these arrangements and should remain so."

"439”, “Membership of current board consisting of parent members & co-opted members works well for us.  Consideration should be given to increasing the number of parents who can be members (within reason) with any new parents interested in taking part being accepted as members for agreed term of office.
St Margaret's certainly benefits from having both church representative and staff representatives as a co-opted members and would wish this situation to remain.  Parents members should however be in the majority.
"

"440”, “Membership should not be confined to parents.  There- should be representation from the school and co-opted individuals- but parents should be in the majority."

"441”, “No.  There should be a member of the teaching staff."

"442”, “Yes"

"443”, “"

"444”, “"

"445”, “"

"446”, “The majority should be parents with some local individuals being co-opted."

"447”, “Yes"

"448”, “"

"449”, “No but parents should be in the majority."

"450”, “No"

"451”, “N/A"

"452”, “"

"453”, “Yes."

"454”, “No.  It would be essential for the Head Teacher to be actively involved."

"455”, “"

"456”, “"

"457”, “Co-opted from local business / community, parental majority"

"458”, “Parental majority.  Individuals co-opted from community and business are a great advantage."

"459”, “Yes (agree)
Yes, parents should be in majority."

"460”, “We reject the idea of parent forums.  The school board system is ideal."

"461”, “No - should include staff and councillors.  Yes."

"462”, “As for question 13.  Needs to involve all parties not just the parents who are not educationalists."

"463”, “Parents in the majority, with other expertise drawn from the local community, including parents of children who used to attend, and are about to attend."

"464”, “No.  Needs to be teacher representation.  However parents should  be in the majority."

"465”, “Yes.  Yes."

"466”, “Agree - Roman Catholic schools should have church representative and staff rep "

"467”, “Yes"

"468”, “No. I / We don't agree with parents forum."

"469”, “We feel that parents of those co-opted by parents should be in the majority."

"470”, “Yes - would suggest local authority advice be available on co-opting and include suggestion to co-opt teacher / advisor."

"471”, “Yes and Yes - always in majority."

"472”, “Don't agree with the concept of parent forum - if they do go ahead, parents must be in the majority but not exclusively."

"473”, “I do not think that individuals should be co-opted to a parent forum or indeed, to a school board.  There should be a voting procedure.  Parents should be in the majority."

"474”, “No we believe the current provision, where for example in a catholic school the church has a right to be represented should be retained.  We also believe that parents should always be in the majority."

"475”, “We feel that membership of a parent forum should be confined to parents (the broad definition) of children attending the school AND individuals co-opted by the parent forum.  People should always be in the majority.  There should not be a majority of members with the same special interest."

"476”, “The current constitution of school boards works very well giving useful perspective from wider community, teachers and parental majority."

"477”, “Parents should be in the majority but staff, ancillary staff, etc should be allowed to play a part."

"478”, “We believe a mix of people is healthy for any organisation and adds to the benefits for the overall management of the school in this instance obviously as this is a ""school board"" situation a majority of parents / carers should be in place to ensure the needs of the children are met."

"479”, “Parents should always be in the majority, but there MUST BE staff, education authority and community representatives on the board to voice their opinions and give advice."

"480”, “Parents should always be in the majority but should be able to co-opt community representatives."

"481”, “Useful boards to have co-opted members but parents should always be in the majority."

"482”, “Parents should always be in the majority but parent forums should be able to co-opt community representatives."

"483”, “No - but parents should be in the majority.  To have an all parent forum would be to miss out on the experience and perspective other members of the community can contribute."

"484”, “Parents in the majority and head teacher must have mechanism to guard against those forums being hijacked by special interest groups.  This has been a problem with such system in the USA."

"485”, “Parents should always be in majority, but should be allowed to co-opt staff and community related members."

Parent Forums - Draft Bill