Parents play a key role in their children’s education. Effective early childhood settings and schools take account of the influence of the home on children’s learning and they build on the experience children bring to the setting or school. Establishing strong links with parents helps make children's education as successful as possible.
Both the National Parents Council (Primary) and the National Parents Council (Post-primary) are represented on the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA).
To access information about curriculum and assessment, click on the relevant link/s below:
The NCCA developed Aistear: the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework (2009) in partnership with the early childhood sector. Parents played a key role in this. Aistear states that:
"Parents are the most important people in children's lives. The care and education that children receive from their parents and family, especially during their early months and years, greatly influence their overall development. Extended family and community also have important roles to play". (Principles and themes, p.9)
Post-primary initiatives have also involved both the input of parents and the development of relevant materials to facilitate involvement in their children’s education.
Aistear: the Early Childhood Curriculum Framework (2009) (PDF)Well-Being and Post-Primary Schooling (2008)(PDF)Senior Cycle: Moving Forward (2008)(PDF)Exceptionally Able Students: Draft Report on the Consultation (2008)(PDF)
National Parents Council Post-primaryNational Council for Special EducationNational Parents Council PrimaryDepartment of Education and ScienceDocuments of interest to parents who are newcomers to Ireland are available from the Department of Education and Science's website in the following languages: