Making the difference – involving parents better in schools

Question 14

Do you consider these functions appropriate to parent forums ? Would you suggest removing or adding any , or making some obligatory and others optional ?

"1”, “?"

"2”, “All apply to the reality of how School Boards operate within the existing framework with the exception of ""amending its constitution"" where a tweak to allow such flexibility would be welcome"

"3”, “Present powers duties and responsibility of a School Board are the bare minimum which should be enhanced"

"4”, “-"

"5”, “"

"6”, “Yes  - appropriate functions"

"7”, “"

"8”, “?"

"9”, “-"

"10”, “See Above"

"11”, “These functions are so similar to those of School Boards that it is difficult to see why it is thought necessary to abolish them."

"12”, “"

"13”, “?"

"14”, “We agree with some of the points, but not all of them"

"15”, “Yes"

"16”, “Yes, I do think these functions are appropriate to a 'school' forum"

"17”, “Would suggest adding national initiatives for consideration and consultation and monitoring implementation of national initiatives and priorities"

"18”, “Functions are appropriate for School Boards - suggest adding - consideration and consultation of national initiatives and monitoring implementation of national initiatives and priorities"

"19”, “There would be no difference from what's already in School Board Act"

"20”, “'Seeking to improve' is a lot less onerous than having a 'duty to improve'  As a Board we would rather it was our duty"

"21”, “Yes
No"

"22”, “No"

"23”, “-"

"24”, “"

"25”, “Yes - function appropriate"

"26”, “The main functions are valid should parent forums be set up IN ADDITION to School Boards on a locally agreed basis.  The 'other' functions would then be unnecessary"

"27”, “"

"28”, “N/A"

"29”, “Not particularly - how realistically could a parent forum address these? - non-specific criteria.  Guidance needed as to appropriate issues for discussion - too vague at present.  Issues of CONFIDENTIALITY relating to pupils and staff a MAJOR concern."

"30”, “-"

"31”, “"

"32”, “No - this proposed Bill is not required"

"33”, “We disagree with unfettered freedom to amend the constitution but the other functions are already catered for."

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

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

"36”, “"

"37”, “We are not in agreement to parent forums"

"38”, “If we have to have a parent forum we would like to have the same powers as the School Board but to be more flexible vis a vis composition of members due to our small population"

"39”, “"

"40”, “Yes"

"41”, “Just retain the 1988 Act"

"42”, “"

"43”, “Yes"

"44”, “Status quo as per School Board regulations"

"45”, “Board feels functions listed are appropriate.  Board feels that functions should not be too prescriptive and need to remain open-ended to suit the needs of individual schools.  Consider an annual report should be obligatory.  In relation to financial powers 8.4, Board feels strongly that any property should pass to the individual school and not the local authority"

"46”, “Clear terms of reference on reporting to local authority and 'other persons' needed - a licence for anarchy!"

"47”, “No"

"48”, “Yes - then in addition obligatory requirement to keep all parents and other interested parties informed of issues discussed and progress of ongoing matters"

"49”, “"

"50”, “"

"51”, “?"

"52”, “Parents need a system that not only listens and provided information and advice but that also ensures they are consulted with on important issues relating to senior staff, buildings and major policy changes.  They need to be confident that when an issue is raised they will be able to get timely responses and appropriate action to achieve effective solutions.  The following areas should be given statutory protection - educational issues including appointment and deployment of senior staff, property - land, capital and maintenance issues, supporting individuals when appropriate to the greater good of the school - provision of learning support, inclusion and transport etc, Health and Safety issues, a realistic and independent budget that allows full consultation and inclusion of all parents to be achieved including administrative support, fund raising"

"53”, “"

"54”, “"

"55”, “Which functions?"

"56”, “No"

"57”, “Yes, it should all be subject to time and resources being available however."

"58”, “OK"

"59”, “"

"60”, “"

"61”, “The Head Teacher should lead the effort to find out the views of parents but should share these with the forum.  What controls would exist to prevent questions being asked of parents which could be regarded as discriminatory?  What controls would exist to prevent a constitution being amended in a discriminatory or illegal way?"

"62”, “"

"63”, “Retain status quo in recruitment"

"64”, “Great care should be taken to ensure that parents continue to work with the school staff in partnership and functions of any new body should reflect this aim"

"65”, “"

"66”, “"

"67”, “The functions outlined in the draft bill are appropriate but rather general.  The current School Boards have provided a useful focal point for representing the concerns of parents to an education authority where major changes are proposed that will impact upon the quality and standards of provision in schools.  The introduction of PPP and a refurbishment programme across Renfrewshire's schools is a recent example of this sort.  We believe that it is essential that parent forums continue to be involved in dialogue about major spending decisions within the school's budget.  Accountability of the Head Teacher to parents concerning school policies over financial expenditures on equipment and resources is an important means of ensuring some degree of dialogue and transparency over spending priorities"

"68”, “Functions should be open-ended within the spirit of a proper interest in education"

"69”, “Functions appropriate although there is a difference between an enshrined duty to raise standards and a seeking after standards."

"70”, “It was felt these functions appropriate but would like to see some regulation of conduct of forums"

"71”, “"

"72”, “"

"73”, “"

"74”, “?"

"75”, “"

"76”, “The School Board should be an effective and efficient partnership between bodies who are all aiming for the same thing - to raise and improve attainment and the kids to have the best possible education."

"77”, “No"

"78”, “The present powers given to School Boards by the 1988 Act is the minimum we should have in the future, and possibly enhanced!"

"79”, “These functions are appropriate for School Boards/forums, but should also include the function of retaining at least the current level of involvement in recruitment to senior posts."

"80”, “Broadly, yes, but better to address this through amendments to existing legislation"

"81”, “I feel the answers given previously are self explanatory (School Board current format)"

"82”, “The functions listed appear to be more the responsibility of those with a remit for Quality Assurance"

"83”, “"

"84”, “Current Board system should be retained"

"85”, “The functions suggested for parent forums  seem to be the same as currently performed by School Boards - so why change.  Energy should be focused on restructuring to include wider involvement, not abolition."

"86”, “Yes"

"87”, “"

"88”, “yes - the functions are appropriate to the organisation (board or forum)"

"89”, “"

"90”, “"

"91”, “Which functions ??"

"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”, “Answers to be found in previous questions."

"94”, “These functions would have to be detailed."

"95”, “We feel that all the functions are carried out by the School Board anyway."

"96”, “"

"97”, “Would like to make it obligatory for non-members (as above) to attend if invited.  Continue to have duty to improve standards of education in schools.  Continue LEGISLATION for parental participation."

"98”, “part 1 yes
part 2 no"

"99”, “Not applicable.  Parent forums are not a good replacement for School Boards."

"100”, “Yes"

"101”, “Yes"

"102”, “N / A"

"103”, “Blank."

"104”, “Functions already dealt with under the school board system.  These could be added to depending on individual school."

"105”, “No."

"106”, “?"

"107”, “Blank"

"108”, “School Board already fulfils these duties."

"109”, “Blank"

"110”, “All those functions are currently undertaken by school boards however we feel it is the responsibility of the Head Teacher and the staff to raise quality and standards in the school."

"111”, “There must be an obligation of Parent Forum members to attend meetings regularly if anything worthwhile is to be attained.
Minutes and agendas must be maintained otherwise the whole exercise will be a waste of time."

"112”, “"

"113”, “N / A"

"114”, “See above - ( Head teacher should always be welcome - this should be open to all who have some interest in the school. )"

"115”, “Yes, but not make any obligatory."

"116”, “Yes, I see these as the functions."

"117”, “In addition to the functions listed, participate in the appointment of senior teaching staff and examine school budgets, and raise funds if the insurance issues (Qs16) can be resolved."

"118”, “Yes"

"119”, “Blank"

"120”, “Yes"

"121”, “Would not allow the parental forum to alter the constitution."

"122”, “Should stay the same as at present."

"123”, “Yes"

"124”, “Blank"

"125”, “I still feel the staff of the school should have the right to involvement."

"126”, “I consider that most parents would like to trust their children’s educational interests to the professional teachers and see the function of the board or forum to assist where they can.  The remit has to be flexible enough to meet changing circumstances."

"127”, “These functions are carried out now - they should continue."

"128”, “Blank"

"129”, “Functions are appropriate to Boards and prospective Forums."

"130”, “No - current arrangements satisfactory."

"131”, “What will happen re approval of devolved budgets ?
Input into school development plan ?
Appointment of head / senior staff - should have input."

"132”, “Blank"

"133”, “Blank"

"134”, “No"

"135”, “It is essential for any school board to listen to everyone's views not the elite few."

"136”, “Blank"

"137”, “Blank"

"138”, “?"

"139”, “...Seems.... hard to accomplish"

"140”, “The School Board already fulfils most of these functions other than the amendment of the constitution which we feel should be for consultation if necessary."

"141”, “Staff membership would be desirable as at present."

"142”, “Stick with existing school boards."

"143”, “Reporting to parents on own activities should not be compulsory.  Minutes should be taken and be available to all, so no need for reporting."

"144”, “Part of parents responsibility is to see that homework is done and to support teachers
a) not optional
b) cornerstone of parent forum
c) already happens
d) limited scope to attend"

"145”, “"

"146”, “"

"147”, “N / A as we do not want forums and want school boards to remain."

"148”, “N / A - more information required."

"149”, “More information"

"150”, “Same as current school board."

"151”, “N / A"

"152”, “No - because we do not advocate parent forums.
All except last function i.e. 'amending its constitution' are existing functions if school boards."

"153”, “Obligatory that teachers are in the majority.  They are the ones who are teaching, know the children’s individual education needs, knows how to improve the functioning of the school."

"154”, “I agree"

"155”, “Blank"

"156”, “Yes, all seem appropriate"

"157”, “N / A"

"158”, “Yes"

"159”, “"

"160”, “N / A"

"161”, “Yes - within local authority guidelines but should be flexible but not obligatory."

"162”, “School boards have their functions defined nationally.  Any changes should be agreed at a national level."

"163”, “Yes"

"164”, “According to the consultation, the bill does not consider these functions essential but only sets out functions that the forum can engage in.  Recommendations for operation of a parent forum which can do as little or as much as one or a majority of parents want, with or without the staff of the school being on board seems too fluid to be workable.  No evidence has been produced to make us think otherwise.  At certain times I haven't been able to join School Boards or PTAs but have an expectancy that the school will have such groups and that is comforting.  The idea of parent forums could depend on some enthusiasts, who may or may not be available.  In addition, under this Bill it seems that parents will not be able to assist in the management of the school and I think that this is a bad thing.  Any parental group should have a duty to support the aims and mission of the school."

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

"166”, “"

"167”, “The functions listed are appropriate"

"168”, “These seem to tally with the current functions of the School Board which we support."

"169”, “Board already has most of these functions"

"170”, “These functions are entirely appropriate but already exist under current legislation."

"171”, “Yes - present School Boards, Yes - PTA, No - Parent Forums"

"172”, “Not appropriate"

"173”, “Yes, these functions are appropriate and it would be up to the newly formed forum to re-assess these as it progresses"

"174”, “"

"175”, “Just keep to the present School Boards and there would be none of this confusion."

"176”, “There should be some legislation for parents to be able in certain circumstances to make known their views if it is obvious that a school is failing."

"177”, “Question not understood"

"178”, “The parent forum if this is the locally chosen option should be able to demonstrate that it is representative of parents' views."

"179”, “Current School Board legislation is adequate."

"180”, “"

"181”, “"

"182”, “Parent forums should have some basic functions such as overseeing the budget and the development plan but other functions should be decided on a local basis by the particular forum."

"183”, “All functions listed are competent and within the School Board remit.  There should be a statutory requirement for School Boards/Parent Forums to seek to raise quality and standards within the school  - not the optional 'can engage in' as the new Bill proposes."

"184”, “Functions would be totally inappropriate.  Additional comments can be provided if required."

"185”, “"

"186”, “Yes - what we do at moment.  All should be optional and up to individual parent forums to decide priorities based on local circumstances."

"187”, “Yes, with limited power to amend constitution."

"188”, “Function appropriate - however, do not agree with forums."

"189”, “Blank"

"190”, “Blank"

"191”, “"

"192”, “School Boards can already do these things.  Constitution should be set."

"193”, “We like the existing structure of the School Board (as set out in the handbook) The Election process needs to be simplified.  All parents to be members.  Elections annually at AGM but those present - make it a social occasion say with cheese/wine and encourage all parents to attend.  Existing report and representation to stay.  Forum members should not spend time discussing changes to constitution.  Skeleton one to be drawn up by Authority for use by all forums."

"194”, “School Boards already carry out these functions and yes these are appropriate to parent forums"

"195”, “Yes"

"196”, “These functions appear to be a reasonable part of the new forums, but protocols need to be in place to guide the forum."

"197”, “No"

"198”, “Reporting of views to Head Teacher should be obligatory, one forum per school, multi forums may become unworkable."

"199”, “We consider them appropriate as these are covered currently by the present School Board system."

"200”, “Yes - appropriate."

"201”, “"

"202”, “Pass"

"203”, “We do not feel that as a 'forum' our voice would be sufficient to take issues on board.  Head Teachers and staff need to be involved/others as necessary could be involved depending on issues."

"204”, “Yes"

"205”, “Functions are appropriate but exist already under School Boards Act."

"206”, “Rights of parents need to be clearly defined - set down by law."

"207”, “Blank"

"208”, “Need to be one role - by law."

"209”, “No, I think the teaching staff are far more qualified to raise quality standards, etc.  Parent forum should merely be assisting school."

"210”, “How will these forums achieve these especially points 5 to 8 ?
Points 1 to 4 obligatory
Point 5 - Would be interested in how as current govt initiatives can't.
Points 6-7 optional - could overlap with PTA.
Point 8 - obligatory - take account of new parents."

"211”, “Yes"

"212”, “Yes"

"213”, “School Boards already have the option to discuss and represent the views of the parents - this should be encouraged.  The current functions seem appropriate and should be continued."

"214”, “The functions I support are those of existing school boards which I think should be maintained."

"215”, “Blank"

"216”, “No"

"217”, “Blank"

"218”, “Yes, they are appropriate."

"219”, “Blank"

"220”, “Blank"

"221”, “Yes"

"222”, “Support the school in ITS aims and initiatives."

"223”, “No.  We are concerned that the proposed parent forum has duties to represent parents rather than play a part in managing the school and that the education authority has no duty to respond to these representations or to delegate any powers to the parent body.  Under this proposed legislation the parent body seems to become a talking shop.
We believe the governing body must represent all stakeholders in the school and must have clearly prescribed duties and powers which must be delegated to it by the local education authority."

"224”, “"

"225”, “Don't understand the question."

"226”, “Blank"

"227”, “In the absence of elections, how would you make them obligatory.
""Tweak"" the existing legislation."

"228”, “We do not see the need to change the current format."

"229”, “N / A"

"230”, “Blank"

"231”, “No"

"232”, “"

"233”, “"

"234”, “Blank"

"235”, “N / A"

"236”, “Yes; also keep main aim - ""putting needs / welfare of pupils first""."

"237”, “"

"238”, “Many of the functions are already carried out by effective school boards."

"239”, “The legislation needs to strengthen and be more prescriptive in widening the ........ of the schools curriculum and running of the school, that the forum can become involved.
- For example, greater access to grants to enable improving school playground equipment.
- Making the Education Authority responsible to respond to Forums instructions regarding maintenance of the school fabric, etc"

"240”, “Yes, functions described are all-but one functions of existing Board, so why change ?"

"241”, “Blank"

"242”, “Already in place.
Following would also be preferable:   DSM, School policy, Curriculum, Discipline, School Uniform, School performances.
Meetings, however informal need to be minuted."

"243”, “Qs 13/14 No.  Present structure suitable.
Headteacher/teachers HAVE to be there!  Communications vital between parties.
Cannot function without contact at meetings.
Councillors free to attend."

"244”, “Yes"

"245”, “They are absolutely necessary.  Head Teacher - Obligatory.  Staff Member - highly desirable.  Local Councillor - desirable.  Individuals - by invitation."

"246”, “"

"247”, “"

"248”, “We feel some of the functions are appropriate whereas others we feel are beyond the experience and capabilities of the ""average parent"""

"249”, “I would remove 'amending its constitution' I feel the Constitution should be the backbone to all activities and shouldn't easily be amended."

"250”, “?"

"251”, “Yes"

"252”, “"

"253”, “"

"254”, “Tweaking the School Board system"

"255”, “All functions and obligations which are currently undertaken by School Boards should continue."

"256”, “Yes but more regular reporting"

"257”, “Minutes should be kept and made available to all.  Parents should have a voice in appointment of Head Teacher and Depute Head Teacher as on School Board"

"258”, “We advocate the same structure as now."

"259”, “Yes - quite general"

"260”, “Difficult to answer - not enough detail"

"261”, “Yes - appropriate, but do they already exist?"

"262”, “All should be optional"

"263”, “Yes - dependent on list given"

"264”, “There should be proper elected officials and minutes should be taken under a proper constitutional basis giving full accountability for decisions taken such as Head Teacher appointment and budget and fund-raising."

"265”, “Finding out, reporting, making representations, (but parents to decide how this is to be done)
To seek and to support - must be obligatory, promoting - optional, amending - could be removed because provision is assumed for this in the Draft Bill (a model of a constitution should be provided then limited scope given for amending the model)"

"266”, “These functions are appropriate for School Boards/forums, but to include the function of retaining the current level of involvement in recruitment to senior posts."

"267”, “"

"268”, “"

"269”, “No"

"270”, “What functions?"

"271”, “I agree with the present way things are done but feel only a little tweaking is required."

"272”, “No we consider the functions carried out by the existing legislation for School Boards and PTFA are sufficient."

"273”, “"

"274”, “No - you can't make parents become involved in their child's school so making a function obligatory is pointless.  A parent forum without Head Teacher involvement is a lunatic idea - teachers should be teaching and therefore making decisions to do with the school -  it will muddy the works by trying to make parents become to involved."

"275”, “What functions?"

"276”, “Please leave well alone."

"277”, “Not applicable - I favour retention of elected school Boards"

"278”, “The present system is involved in all of those functions and involved in an appropriate way."

"279”, “The functions and power that School Boards have just now should not be taken away from parent forums in the future.  This draft proposal seems to take away all the powers that School Boards have at present."

"280”, “"

"281”, “"

"282”, “These functions should be obligatory."

"283”, “This broadly aligns with the remit of the current School Boards."

"284”, “Majority (4) yes - comments were: provided emphasis is on support rather than intrusion; some of them ...... first 4 obligatory in our school the Board does this.  Minority (1) No"

"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”, “Blank"

"288”, “N / A"

"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 believe the current legislation is appropriate."

"295”, “Parental Forums should be involved in all aspects of school life and positively support the authority and the staff at the school to deliver the highest quality educational standard for the students."

"296”, “"

"297”, “We feel that the optional ""functions"" should be obligatory.  There should also be an obligatory function about the structure of a forum."

"298”, “"

"299”, “"

"300”, “"

"301”, “"

"302”, “"

"303”, “"

"304”, “The absence of a constitutional role, responsibilities or duties of a parent forum as drafted in the consultation document make the appropriateness or otherwise of the functions impossible to determine.  This dilemma immediately highlights the difficulties that the proposed, flexible, self determined, potentially single parent, forums will face in an unconstitutionalised environment.

The current functions and obligations of School Boards and PTAs should continue as they provide the positive environment for active participation and support of children in the school community.  Under current requirements some of the obligatory requirements of School Boards are to..
Report annually on its activities,
Promote the quality and standard of education in schools
Approve the School Development Plan

"

"305”, “"

"306”, “Functions appropriate although there is a difference between in enshrined. duty to raise standards and a seeking after standards.
"

"307”, “"

"308”, “"

"309”, “"

"310”, “What functions? Certain aspects of school boards must be retained, e.g. that they should see the School Development plans, progress reports and budgets. I also think they should have additional obligatory functions such as seeing, commenting on and contributing to school policies, e.g. homework strategies, anti-bullying programmes, etc.

"

"311”, “If the existing setup of School Boards and PTA's works so badly - why are their functions deemed appropriate to parent forums?

There is currently a clear and natural break between School Boards and PTA's.  School Boards act as a means for Head Teachers and parents to communicate and for Head Teachers to I sound out' parents before making changes while PTA's deal with the social and fundraising side.

There is currently the flexibility for one body to perform both functions if they choose to do so.  However, both are time-consuming and more effective when done by separate bodies. This also involves more parents on the workings of the School. There is a danger that parents will get the minimum numbers involved in a forum and 'leave them to get on with it'."

"312”, “"

"313”, “"

"314”, “Yes but clear guidance would be helpful"

"315”, “"

"316”, “We consider these functions to be appropriate to any parent representative body including existing School Boards."

"317”, “Would disagree that parent forums will be 'freer' to consult. Board already free in this regard.  Seeking to raise quality and standards in the school not an option!  To support must be a cornerstone of the role of parent forums.  Promoting contact is important but not necessarily obligatory.  Amending the constitution should be limited - a model should be set then limited scope to amend."

"318”, “No"

"319”, “The forum must have a mandatory membership to reflect all issues relating to the delivery of a proper educational system."

"320”, “Yes - plus - development plan, school uniforms, school policies, curriculum, discipline, improvement objectives and performance, any other function the Board feels necessary."

"321”, “Yes"

"322”, “We don't agree with Forums but the functions are appropriate since communication is vital."

"323”, “No"

"324”, “If the forums are introduced then their functions should be identical to those of the old School Boards as long as something similar to the old system is maintained."

"325”, “I have no other suggestions."

"326”, “"

"327”, “"

"328”, “Standard of education in school should be obligatory"

"329”, “The functions should be maintained, except changes to the constitution."

"330”, “Head Teacher should be there - this needs to be in constitution."

"331”, “"

"332”, “"

"333”, “Yes"

"334”, “I think the first list is good for promoting parental involvement and therefore appropriate, but the second list is surely more important in terms of functions and provides a good focus for the reason parent forums would exist."

"335”, “?"

"336”, “"

"337”, “Main functions of School Board at present"

"338”, “School Boards have their functions defined nationally.  Any changes should be agreed at a national level."

"339”, “Structure should be based on a national plan but scope to make amendments to constitution."

"340”, “"

"341”, “We believe the current legislation is appropriate."

"342”, “(Our) School Board feel that the function of the Board fulfils most of the obligations (apart from amending its constitution). A parent wants their child to be educated to the highest of levels and that their school years are a pleasant, all-round experience. i.e. Education is about the whole person."

"343”, “Again you begin with the premise that parent forums have been established. The functions suggested for parent forums seem to be the same as are currently performed by School Boards. So why change? Energy should be focussed on restructuring to include wider involvement, not abolition."

"344”, “Don't know."

"345”, “The current School Board functions focus primarily on the administrative and management of a school and are indeed clearly prescribed.  There are occasions where School Boards feel that their current remit is overly narrow and somewhat obstructs their ability to assist the school in all matters.

This is another example of an area which could be assessed for further incremental refinement - this process could occur by surveying opinions of School Boards and head teachers. It would not require the disbandment of the current School Board system approach.
"

"346”, “Difficult to answer due to so little detail
Appointments of senior staff.
Building on good existing practice.
The answer is Yes and also to undertake any other functions that may be appropriate from time to time
"

"347”, “It is important to safeguard the existing powers of School Boards including(but not limited) those pertaining to the appointment of senior school staff. "

"348”, “In general the functions appear appropriate and are honourable in their intentions.  The list however lacks specific activities/roles in the management of the school (e.g. approving budget elements) and as such lends weight to the feeling that it lacks real teeth. The use of words such as ""seek"", ""promote"" and ""make representations"" are on the face of it encouraging, yet you cannot see how these things in themselves would lead to a change in how the school was being managed, if that was required in furtherance of improving the children's education/learning."

"349”, “It is questionable whether an annual report to parents from the parent forum is adequate.  Communication with the parent body has been an area of difficulty for School Boards and needs to be a major focus for parent forums.  Many School Boards have struggled to define their purpose and have a very vague idea of what they should become involved in. Being more specific in relation to these functions would be beneficial. The quality indicators in 'How Good is Our School' that pertain to parental involvement may provide a good starting point.  Otherwise, these are appropriate broad functions and are capable of further refinement by individual forums."

"350”, “The Scottish Executive appears to be under a misconception that a School Board's activities only focus on the administration and management of a school. Nothing could be further from the truth.  Whilst there are various prescribed functions, the current agendas of School Boards reflect the types of issues that are important to parents locally.

Practical topics such as safer routes to school, school meals, sports facilities, school transport and after school activities are commonly discussed. School Boards are also addressing key educational initiatives promoted nationally and have helped the Scottish Executive 'spread the message' to parents on initiatives such as Parentzone.  School Boards also play a key role in the improvement agenda and are actively involved in the development and review of Quality Improvement Plans within their school and other strategic policies at authority level.
School Boards, through their legislative status and practical achievements over the 16 years, currently have a degree of responsibility, power and, crucially, status that will not necessarily be achieved by Parent Forums.
The functions listed for Parent Forums in the consultation document are far less embracing than those currently exercised by many School Boards.
"

"351”, “"

"352”, “"

"353”, “"

"354”, “Is this a move to parent takeover ?  It seems appropriate that any financial decisions are made by the staff and in certain circumstances with the approval of the school board / PTA / or parents."

"355”, “Yes, the suggested areas seem about right to us but parent forums should at minimum have the same rights of information from the school, head teacher and education authority as that given to the school board in the 1988 act.  The information and documents that Parent Forum are entitled to see or approve should be listed in any amended act."

"356”, “"

"357”, “Impossible to comment due to lack of structure."

"358”, “1) there is a real danger of losing what already exists by creating one amorphous Parent Forum rather than having the separate School Board and School Association (which at our school does a lot of hard work fund raising, organising events etc).

2) The stated functions include ""making representations"" to the Head Teacher or Education Authority about arrangements for promoting parental involvement, but say nothing explicit about ""making representations"" about aspects of the education being provided at the school, the facilities of the school etc.

3) The stated functions do not include those of the School Boards relating to ""the administration and management of the school"". The parental contribution to the administration and management of the school appears to have been removed - limiting the opportunity for parents to make a real contribution to the school.

4) Contrary to the impression given in the consultation document, School Boards can already consult, discuss, etc on all areas of interest to parents. The Bill therefore limits rather than extends parental input.

5) While laudable, the idea that either a School Board or Parent Forum can ""be clearly representative of, represent the views of, and be accountable to, all the parents in the school"" is in practice very hard to achieve. Members of the School Board tend to be very busy people and I would suggest that it is simply not possible for most of them to actively seek the view of all parents on a regular basis.  To do this properly would require a lot of work and considerable commitment of time, as well as relevant skills and experience.  There is no reason to believe that Parent Forum members would have any more time, commitment or skills than do School Board members.

This is an area in which more assistance could be provided by the Scottish Executive or Education Authorities, whether through dissemination of ideas and suggestions (production of good practice guidelines, etc) or by more proactive assistance.

In addition, it would be preferable to encourage the Schools and Education Authority to provide opportunities for the wider parent body to meet and be consulted. For instance to..
- See/hear presentations - for instance about the school's policy on bullying, sex education, discipline, approach to teaching reading, approach to homework, learning support provision, curriculum options, etc etc
- Express their views on the issue, share ideas etc

This would give the opportunity for parents to represent themselves, rather than be represented, as well as encouraging all parents to think about educational issues, understand the concerns of the school, develop an understanding of how their children learn, etc. etc.

The difficulty is likely to be in getting parents along to such events - which might suggest that a good approach would be to combine them with existing parents evenings, which many parents do already attend; holding events locally within each of the communities served by the school, etc.

"

"359”, “"

"360”, “Yes"

"361”, “- As a School Board, we already do this. In terms of best practice, School Boards should do this as a matter of course, but there should be guidelines for working with Head Teacher and local authorities."

"362”, “The functions as presently exist within School Boards under the School Board Act are appropriate."

"363”, “"

"364”, “"

"365”, “"

"366”, “N / A"

"367”, “"

"368”, “"

"369”, “What functions?"

"370”, “Each school will have its own special interests.  The spectrum of areas of interest to the parents forum should not be restricted."

"371”, “We don't agree with the proposals."

"372”, “Appropriate and obligatory."

"373”, “N/A"

"374”, “Yes - functions appropriate, parent forums not involved in individual cases, add 'school lets and use of school premises out with school hours'"

"375”, “Current functions of a board already exceed proposals - should not be weakened or diluted."

"376”, “No - I think it should be left as it is."

"377”, “We do not agree with the basic principle of parent forums but as far as the Board is concerned we welcome input from all members of the community."

"378”, “"

"379”, “Again you begin with the premise that parent forums have been established.  The functions suggested for parent forums seem to be the same as are currently performed by School Boards.  So why change?  Energy should be focused on restructuring to include wider involvement, not abolition."

"380”, “"

"381”, “It is our considered opinion that there is no need for forums to be instigated so these ""functions"" talked about do not need deliberation."

"382”, “I think the School Board broadly represents a good model."

"383”, “The functions stated in the Bill are very vague.  It would be better to work in partnership with the school to support the work in the school and encourage parental involvement through the school.  It is important that parents are informed on management issues, development plan - in order to be completely involved in their children's education.  The present function of the School Board should be replicated in parent forums."

"384”, “These functions all seem relevant to me but would fundraising be included?  If not where would it come in?  PTAs often do the bulk of school fundraising."

"385”, “"

"386”, “"

"387”, “"

"388”, “Need to expand existing structure and functions."

"389”, “These functions are applicable but administration/reporting system should be well managed.  Some functions would be required as mandatory, others may be optional dependant on individual school requirements."

"390”, “Appropriate"

"391”, “I do not agree with the ability to amend the constitution.  This could lead to one group hijacking the parent forum and introducing a constitution for their own ends.  Functions should be as the existing School Board."

"392”, “"

"393”, “These functions are carried out by School Boards - no need to change."

"394”, “Think the wording on 'functions' needs to be more specific as it is for the School Board legislation."

"395”, “No - these powers could lead to misuse unless there were restrictions."

"396”, “Confusion about these functions as parents may seek executive powers due to vagueness of Act.  Parents should be consulted and be involved but should not determine policy."

"397”, “"

"398”, “No - why should parents seek to raise standards?  Anything could happen as functions are too loose!"

"399”, “Parent forums will not provide any more than what the existing Boards are achieving.  Responsibilities should in fact be extended for the existing Boards."

"400”, “I don't believe parent forums provide any added value."

"401”, “No"

"402”, “If anything the responsibilities of the existing Boards should be extended."

"403”, “"

"404”, “We are disappointed at the list since it concentrates solely on the obligations of a forum but gives it few if any rights.  This imbalance needs to be corrected so that like School Boards, parent forums have rights as well as duties."

"405”, “The functions of parent forum are broadly similar to Boards. Raising quality and
 standards and other issues are covered in the 2000 Act."

"406”, “Yes, these activities are appropriate for us as representative parent bodies. We do not feel at all restricted in carrying out any of these activities at present.  We are puzzled as to why these should be included in a Bill, when the Bill already allows for the parent body to decide on its own activities.  There is no need to prescribe any of these activities in particular.
"

"407”, “Yes, we feel all of these functions are appropriate and could be equally applied to School Boards.  We would make all 8 of them mandatory, and would add the following:
 1. Promote and support parental involvement in their child's education within the school.
 2. Respond to LEA's draft strategy and policy documents to represent the view of parents and the school."

"408”, “"

"409”, “Enhancement of those functions conferred by the School Boards (Scotland)Act 1988 is my preferred option."

"410”, “"

"411”, “"

"412”, “In addition to functions such as discussing matters of interest or concern to parents, communicating with parents, consulting with parents, etc, the School Board or Parent Forum should retain the right to scrutinise the head teacher's spending proposals since this provides a useful safeguard.

The School Board or Parent Forum should also retain:
- The right to be consulted about the School Development Plan
- The right to be provided with information about changes to school policies (e.g. uniform, discipline, etc)
- The right to be provided with an annual report on attainment.
- The head teacher's obligation to provide information if the Parent Forum asks does not adequately compensate

In addition, the School Board or Parent Forum should have the power to control use of school premises outside school hours, should they wish to do so.

Particularly important is that the School Board/Parent Forum should retain the clout it currently has if it raises issues of importance to the school with the Education Authority or lobbies on the school's behalf.

The proposals in the draft Bill appear to dilute the role of the Parent Forum as compared with the School Board - indeed it is unclear what the Parent Forum would actually do.  If the Parent Forum concept is too flexible then nobody would bother to get involved; people need to have a structure.
"

"413”, “"

"414”, “Blank"

"415”, “"

"416”, “"

"417”, “"

"418”, “"

"419”, “Some of the functions are little different to what we already do as a School Board.  However, it is difficult to see how a parental forum could ""seek to raise standards etc etc"" and support those managing the school etc etc"".  These functions seem to be set out without giving the new forums any powers and it is hard to envisage how such forums could achieve these functions on a practical and meaningful level."

"420”, “"

"421”, “"

"422”, “"

"423”, “No. The suggestion that a flexible, informal, loosely constituted group developed in accordance with the expectations of parents can effectively deliver the functions proposed is ambitious. Without formal procedures in place no group will be able to address the aim of raising the quality and standards
 of education in schools. The function relating to supporting those managing the school is vague and the support will greatly differ in each school and will depend greatly on the individual relationship, needs and expertise."

"424”, “Currently there are core functions of a School Board - these should be retained and a review group should look at widening the remit allowing comment on most areas of interest or concern to the school at anytime to allow standards in schools to improve."

"425”, “"

"426”, “Representation - finding out and reporting - no problem. Making representations - recommend that requirement for Headteachers involvement be preserved.
Making a Difference - to seek - how can this be optional; to support - a vital ingredient of the role of  the Parents' Forum; promoting - agreed that this is important but maybe not obligatory; amending - set a model and then limited scope to amend"

"427”, “yes"

"428”, “The Scottish Executive appears to be under a misconception that a School Board's activities only focus on the administration and management of a school.  Nothing could be further from the truth.  Whilst there are various prescribed functions, the current agendas of School Boards reflect the types of issues that are important to parents locally.

Practical topics such as safer routes to school, school meals, sports facilities, school transport and after school activities are commonly discussed. School Boards are also addressing key educational initiatives promoted nationally and have helped the Scottish Executive 'spread the message' to parents on initiatives such as Parentzone.

School Boards also play a key role in the improvement agenda and are actively involved in the development and review of Quality Improvement Plans within their school and other strategic policies at authority level.

School Boards, through their legislative status and practical achievements over the 16 years, currently have a degree of responsibility, power and, crucially, status that will not necessarily be achieved by Parent Forums.

The functions listed for Parent Forums in the consultation document are far less embracing than those currently exercised by many School Boards.
"

"429”, “All these functions would be needed to set up parents' forums but the Board does not agree with the Executive's objects.  Members are perfectly satisfied with the current arrangements under the School Boards Act and consider the parents' forums to be inappropriate."

"430”, “Forums should be required to report at least annually to the parents as a whole. Minutes of meetings must be a mandatory requirement in order to provide transparency of operation.  Such minutes should also be made available to parents in general. In other words retain the good methods of working which currently obtain with school Boards."

"431”, “Please refer to the Scottish Executive's consultation exercise with School Boards, in 2003, to see the major functions of School Boards which we would like to see retained and the minor ones (such as setting local holidays) which can be discarded. Further consultation on the nature of modifications to School Board structures is to be welcomed. It is unlikely that the majority of parents could be interested in a forum which took on the full functions of a School Board. It is also important that these full functions not be lost from parental representation."

"432”, “We feel that the amending of the constitution is only appropriate within certain limits - the basic framework should be adhered to.  Promotion of contact between school, current and prospective parents, local community etc should be obligatory."

"433”, “Structure should be based on a national plan but scope to make amendments to constitution."

"434”, “The Board would prefer the retention of the current functions of the School Board. There is concern that what was formerly a duty on School Boards to raise the standards of education in schools will be replaced only by an aspiration to do so. This could be perceived to be a reduction of parental involvement in the process."

"435”, “If you have a School Board then it is already accountable.  This is already taken care of by School Board legislation.  How will new ""forums"" as proposed report to parents if they don't take minutes??

How could the forums report to the Education Service if they are informal and do not like formality?

The Boards already fulfil all the functions listed. We did not perceive any of these as new issues.  The forums only have to seek to raise standards while School Boards are required to.  Need anything else be said on this matter?
Need for disclosure checks when 'supporting students...'.
You are asking forums to take on the job of a School Board without the power that School Boards currently enjoy as they will be abolished.
Summary: There is a general consensus among us that these functions are already suited to a School Board.  We do not see how a forum could be obliged to carry out a role as School Boards currently do when there is supposedly so much flexibility allowed within them.  You can't have it both ways!
"

"436”, “The 1988 Act contains functions appropriate to the existing School Boards."

"437”, “- Difficult to answer due to so little detail
- Appointments of senior staff should be an obligatory function."

"438”, “The existing arrangements are generally satisfactory.  These functions are already key & integral to the existing school Boards."

"439”, “All apart from amending its constitution as 1 think this should be standard across all forums.  All others should be obligatory."

"440”, “There should be consistency across forums.  Suggestions, taking account of the views of parents, should be given as to the type of functions a forum should undertake."

"441”, “Yes, however a bit vague."

"442”, “Blank"

"443”, “"

"444”, “"

"445”, “"

"446”, “Appropriate.  We suggest making liaison with school & other parents obligatory."

"447”, “?"

"448”, “"

"449”, “Blank"

"450”, “Yes, they are appropriate."

"451”, “As per School Board"

"452”, “"

"453”, “?"

"454”, “?"

"455”, “"

"456”, “"

"457”, “Yes"

"458”, “Yes"

"459”, “Yes.  Wouldn't remove any but more information needed to add or change existing functions."

"460”, “We do not agree with parent forums, but representation from the school management would be essential."

"461”, “Forums, if set up, should have the same breadth of function as school boards, i.e. any thing of interest or relevance to the parents and school excluding named individuals."

"462”, “Blank"

"463”, “which functions ?"

"464”, “Should be UNIVERSAL formal constitution, with CONFIDENTIALITY."

"465”, “Board already has most of these functions."

"466”, “Yes - as long as the head teacher is a member and in attendance"

"467”, “Yes, except amending its constitution."

"468”, “No, keep existing school board structure."

"469”, “Generally we are in agreement with the proposal."

"470”, “Add functions of existing boards ."

"471”, “Gathering views of parents - again this leaves matters open to excessive consultation based on who is of concern or interest  to the forum."

"472”, “There should be a universal format,  this is adequately covered by school boards.  There should be elections, quorum and constitution."

"473”, “No.  The head teacher should find out the view of parents regarding quality and standards.  No parent forum should undertake this task.  The education authority, inspectorate and the school staff ought to seek to raise quality and standards."

"474”, “There is a danger that such reporting functions and duties will conflict with the duty of the Headteacher to ensure that parents are appropriately informed / involved, etc  Also at present there is a ""Duty"" on Boards to raise the standard of education.  This new proposal only ""seeks to raise the standard"".  There is an important fundamental difference that has to be addressed."

"475”, “We do feel these functions are appropriate to parent forums.  However we feel that the function ""amending its constitution"" should be removed and dealt with at a national and not local level."

"476”, “Yes - bit a more formal line of power / reporting / obligations / authority would be desirable in the new parent forums."

"477”, “Yes.  Should be obliged to carry them all out to improve standards in education."

"478”, “Some functions are obligatory - such as head teacher others can be optional - such as councillors."

"479”, “It is vital that parents are consulted on the appointment of the staff to the school - head teachers, principal teachers, class teachers, subject teachers, and that the board has a say in the running of the school."

"480”, “The functions are appropriate."

"481”, “The school board currently is involved in all of these functions.  No to additional functions."

"482”, “This functions are appropriate with due regard being given to the professionalism of teachers and their continued desire to raise attainment and help all pupils achieve their full potential."

"483”, “Believe that the functions that the existing school boards have are appropriate."

"484”, “Concerned here that the ""parent forum"" rule is being steered towards a representational rule, exemplified by the first set of bullet items, and away from the meaningful and affirmative rule exemplified by the second set of bullet points.  If these parent forums are not there to improve, improve, improve then they are failing in a fundamental tenet  behind their creation in the first place."

"485”, “Functions should be as they are now focusing on the quality of education not fund raising activities which can be carried out by parents associations."

Parent Forums - Draft Bill