The move reflects growing recognition of the crucial role parents play in supporting their children’s learning. Experts argue that when parents are well-informed, they can better engage with schools and provide the support their children need at home. Stronger communication also helps to build trust, reduce conflict, and improve the overall relationship between schools and families.
The new rules will require schools to share updates in a timely, accessible, and consistent way. This means moving beyond sporadic emails or hard-to-read letters and adopting clear strategies that ensure all parents receive essential information. Whether about curriculum changes, student progress, or safeguarding concerns, schools will be expected to reach families quickly and effectively.
Parents have repeatedly voiced concerns about being left in the dark on issues ranging from classroom behavior policies to upcoming assessments. Some families say they only learn about problems when it is too late to intervene. Others complain that communication is often one-sided, with schools sending out notices but failing to listen to parents’ perspectives.
Under the new approach, schools will also be encouraged to foster two-way communication. This means creating channels where parents can share feedback, ask questions, and feel part of the decision-making process. Digital platforms, dedicated parent meetings, and clear points of contact are among the measures being discussed.
One parent who welcomed the change explained: “We don’t expect schools to solve everything, but we do want to be kept in the loop. When schools communicate well, it makes such a difference in how we can support our children.”
Education leaders point out that stronger communication is not just about convenience but about equity. Families from disadvantaged backgrounds are often the most affected by poor communication, as they may lack the time or resources to chase missing information. Ensuring clarity and accessibility can help level the playing field for all parents, regardless of background.
Teachers, however, caution that communication takes time and resources. Many already feel stretched by heavy workloads and worry that new requirements could add pressure. Advocates for the changes argue that better communication will reduce misunderstandings and conflicts, which in turn saves time for staff in the long run.
Digital tools are likely to play a key role in the shift. Many schools already use apps or online portals, but usage is uneven, and not all parents find them easy to navigate. The new standards may push schools to adopt more user-friendly platforms and ensure that all families, including those with limited digital access, receive the same level of information.
Beyond practical changes, the guidance emphasizes the importance of tone and openness. Parents should not feel blamed, ignored, or dismissed when concerns are raised. Instead, communication should be framed as a partnership, recognizing that parents and teachers share the same goal of supporting children’s learning and wellbeing.
The push for better communication comes at a time of wider debate about parental involvement in education. From curriculum content to behavioral policies, parents are increasingly vocal about wanting a greater say in how schools operate. While this can sometimes lead to tensions, clear communication is seen as a way to reduce mistrust and build stronger relationships.
The new orders mark a step toward making schools more transparent, accountable, and responsive to families. By setting a standard for better communication, policymakers hope to create a culture where parents are active partners rather than passive recipients of information.
If implemented well, the changes could ease frustrations for families, support student achievement, and strengthen trust in the education system. For parents, the message is simple: schools must not only teach children but also keep families informed and involved at every step.
