Parent Teacher Interviews

As Queensland schools will now be offering parents opportunities for two interviews with teachers each year, we would like to assist you to get the most out of these interviews.

Before the interview:

• Become familiar with your child's report card
• Ask your child if he/she has anything for you to raise
• Write a list of specific questions you wish to ask any special concerns?
• Ensure you know the time and place of the interview
• Be positive! Remember you both want the best outcome here.

During the interview:

• Ask the teacher what the expectations are in the subject, eg. regarding homework, assignments. Also any suggestions about how you can help your child at home
• Ask about your child's work habits, behaviour, participation, and learning style
• Raise any particular concerns maths, reading, social skills
• Take notes so you can relay what is discussed with your child
• Share any relevant information about your child that may be affecting his/her learning eg a house move, loss of a family member
• Listen carefully be open to other points of view don't be defensive
• Respect the teachers professional skill and expertise
• Try to stay calm and focussed on what will help your child the most
• Be respectful, positive and constructive
• Remember the best communicators are keen listeners

After the interview:

• End on a positive note and keep in regular contact with the teacher to follow-up on the mutually-agreed plan

After the interview:

• Keep in contact with the teacher, particularly if a follow-up plan was discussed

Some special tips for secondary school parents:

• Don't become impatient if you have to wait teachers have to see many parents
• Be on time there will be many parents before and after you
• Take along a photo of your child. In larger schools, teachers have many students, and they see them for only a few periods each week. Showing a photo will remind them of who you are discussing