The Parents’ Council is the structure through which the parents/guardians of children in a school can work together for the best possible education for their children.
All parents/guardians of children in the school are automatically members of the council with a number of parents being elected to a committee. The Parents’ Council works with the Principal, staff, and the Board of Management to build effective partnerships between home and school.
As per the Education Act 1998
“A parents’ association/council shall promote the interests of the students in a school in co-operation with the board, Principal, teachers and students of a school and for that purpose may advise the Principal or the board on any matter relating to the school and the Principal or board, as the case may be, shall have regard to any such advice.”
What does the Parents’ Council do?
The Parents’ Council is a support for parents in the school and exists to enhance our children’s experience at school. They work in partnership with the Principal and Teachers in the development and review of school policies, such as the anti-bullying, code of behaviour, etc. The Parents’ Council helps the school with fundraising. They can also suggest and/or organise extra-curricular activities, such as sports activities, social events, etc., and invite speakers to address the parents on issues that are topical or relevant.
What the Parents’ Council does NOT do?
The Parents’ Council is not a forum for complaint against an individual teacher, student or parent. The NPC Primary Complaints Procedure is the mechanism for this.
Fundraising Role
One of the main functions of the Parents’ Council is fundraising. The Parents’ Council will run several fundraising events over the course of the year. The fundraising events are always run in consultation with the school Principal and raise money for a specific purpose.
Money raised through an activity goes directly to the school to enhance our children’s education. Previously we have raised funds for classroom televisions, interactive whiteboards, playground equipment, graduation gifts for school leavers and we have contributed for transport to swimming lessons and to the book rental scheme.
Parents are encouraged to participate and contribute where they can to assist our ongoing efforts.
Parent’s Council Committee
All parents are automatically members of the Parent’s Council, represented by a committee of enthusiastic, friendly and hard-working parents who promote and support the interests, welfare, and education of all pupils. We’re always happy to hear from parents who’d like to be involved or take an active role in various activities to support our school and enrich our children’s education. Feel free to join our meetings or contact us with any questions or suggestions by sending an e-mail to nsclonegalparents@gmail.com.
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The Parent’s Council consists of the following members: