In September the school year can feel like it will last forever… and then suddenly, the first parent-teacher evening is around the corner!
But don’t panic, we’ve got your back. We’ve gathered tips from experienced teachers to help you learn from their experience and find your feet during those first few parents’ evenings.
1. Plan your conversations in advance
The easiest way to get through the evening? Know what you’re going to say to each parent!
Take some time a couple of days before to gather each pupil’s progress report, and any recent work samples that will help you on the night.
Consider what their strengths are, and where they could progress and any upcoming work or subjects that parents/guardians might be interested in.
“A quick one-to-one chat with pupils beforehand can reveal their latest interests of worries — and helps me speak to parents with real insight”
2. Manage your time
There’s nothing worse than a growing queue of parents, while you just can’t seem to get that one pupil’s dad away from the table. Being clear and upfront about your time boundaries can make it easier to honour them yourself, while helping others understand what to expect.
We’d suggest using a discreet timer or watch to monitor sessions — if conversations overrun you can always offer a follow up meeting.
“Beware of the last appointment of the night, some parents even book this one just so they can run over.”
“Mentioning the schedule from the outset means parents respect the clock — and I can finish on a high note (and on time!)”.
3. Don’t arrive with surprises
Use parents’ evening as a time to celebrate successes, share future goals, and touch base on any ongoing issues.
It’s often best to try and address any serious concerns ahead of time with a quick call or email, so the meeting itself can stay positive and focused.
“If something does come up, offer to book an appointment with a parent at a later date, or to schedule a phone call. No big issue is solved at parents’ evening, and if something new comes up it might be useful to go away and chat to leadership before following up with the parents.”
4. Practice good feedback
Be specific, calm, and honest in your feedback. Consider your language carefully and remember to show that you really know the student you’re talking about.
“I always say the level a student is working towards, rather than the level they are working at. This gives them a sense that they are progressing, and that can be surprisingly powerful in supporting their re-engagement with a subject”
“Sandwiching feedback is not only great for pupils — parent’s often need it too. A star, a wish, and then another star – always ending with something positive.”
5. Invite questions at the start
Starting each session by asking parents if they have any questions can help them feel heard and prevent any big questions at the end of their time slot. Just be sure to guide the conversation back if it drifts.
“Most parents say ‘no thanks’ if you ask them for any questions. But for parents coming in with worries or concerns, this question ensures they feel heard right from the start.”
6. Focus on collaboration
Parents should be partners in their child’s learning, not critics of your teaching. Whilst it can be easy to feel like you owe them answers, remember that even challenging parents are there to support — not direct — your teaching.
“I always start positive, then say something like: “How can we work together to support Ella’s love of maths?”
7. Schedule in some self-care
These evenings can be a great opportunity to celebrate the students in your class, but they can often be exhausting — be sure to plan something that’ll help you recharge.
“What makes you feel great about yourself? What would be the best way to spend your time after a parents evening? Do something nice for yourself even if it’s just sleeping.”
Parent’s evening isn’t just something to survive — it’s a chance for you to see the real, genuine impact you’ve had as a teacher. With just a little bit of preparation, you’ll have a parents’ evening that leaves you feeling positive about your work and your class. Enjoy it, and good luck 💖
