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Contacting the school office
The school office is often your first contact. Staff there answer the phone, take messages and pass them to teachers. Many schools also use email or an app for messages. If you call, say your child's name and class first. Then say why you are calling. If you do not understand, it is fine to ask them to repeat or to speak more slowly. You can also ask for the answer by email, so you can read it later.
Hello, I'm calling about my son, Adam, in Year Four.
Could you please pass a message to his class teacher?
Sorry, could you say that again more slowly, please?
Reporting an absence
If your child is ill and cannot go to school, schools usually ask parents to tell them early that morning. You can often phone, leave a voicemail or send a message. Give your child's name, class and a short reason. You do not need to give many details. If your child will be away for more than one day, you can say that too. Each school has its own way, so check what yours prefers.
My daughter is unwell today, so she won't be in school.
She has a temperature, so I'm keeping her at home.
I'll let you know if she needs to stay home tomorrow.
Parents' evening
Parents' evening is a short meeting with your child's teacher. Some are in person, some are online. The teacher usually talks about how your child is learning and behaving. The meeting is often quick, so it helps to write your questions down before you go. You can ask how to help at home. If you do not understand a word, just ask what it means. Teachers are used to this.
How is she doing in reading and maths?
What can we do at home to help him?
Sorry, what does that word mean?
Sharing a worry
Maybe your child seems unhappy, has a problem with other children, or finds the work difficult. You can ask for a short meeting with the teacher. Explain what you have noticed and how long it has been happening. Stay calm and simple. Ask what the teacher has seen in class. Then agree on a next step together, like talking again soon. It is fine to say you are worried.
I'm a bit worried about my son. Could we talk soon?
He says he feels left out at break time.
What have you noticed in class?
Asking for language support
If you find school letters or meetings hard to follow, you can say so. Some schools can help with translated information or let a family member join a meeting. You can also ask staff to write things down or use simple words. Asking for help is normal and shows you care. You can say which language your child speaks at home too. This helps the teacher understand your child better.
My English is still improving. Could you use simple words, please?
Could you send me this information in writing?
At home we mostly speak our first language.
Common questions
Who should I talk to first?
Usually the class teacher, or the form tutor in secondary school. If you are not sure, contact the school office and ask who is best to speak to. They can pass on your message.
Is it rude to contact the teacher often?
Not if you have a real question or worry. Try to keep messages short and clear. For bigger topics, ask for a meeting instead of sending many messages.
What if I don't understand a school letter?
You can call or email the office and ask them to explain. You can say, "I didn't understand this letter. Could you explain it simply?" Staff are usually happy to help.