Parental Involvement

Research shows that children learn best when their parents are involved. You are regarded as a member of our Playgroup and have full participatory rights. These include the right to be: valued and respected, kept informed, consulted and included at all levels. Rewarding friendships can be established by joining in community activities organised by the playgroup. Parents are very welcome to join in the session time and participate on a voluntary basis. We also welcome ideas and articles for the Playgroup Newsletter which is published every few months.

How Are Parents Involved?

Our playgroup recognises parents/carers as the first and most important educators of their children. All of the staff see themselves as partners with parents/carers in providing care and education for their child.As a parent/carer, you are regarded as a member of our playgroup and have full participatory rights.

These are the ways in which parents/carers help to make our playgroup a warm and stimulating place:

• Exchanging knowledge about their children’s needs, interests, progress and activities with staff

• Sharing special occasions with staff often via tapestry

• Being part of the management system within playgroup via the committee

• Helping to provide resources and equipment to the playgroup used to support the children’s play and learning

• By providing support on trips to ensure high ratios are maintained and local trips can be taken

• Building relationships with other parents, by participating in playgroup activities and other community events

• Supporting playgroup in fundraising so we can provide new materials

Who Are We?

There are key people within the committee to deal with specific areas of responsibility

The chairperson runs the meetings and acts as a spokesperson for the playgroup when necessary. They are the first point of contact the management issues and they are the registered person with OFSTED.

The secretary takes committee meeting minutes and circulate these to all members. They also provide committee members with  meeting agenda prior to it taking place. They can assist in the creation of key documents and archive all correspondence as necessary.

The admission secretary deals with all enquiries relating to the intake of children and ensure that the necessary paperwork is sent out to and completed by prospective parents.

The treasurer works with committee and the business manager to ensure that the financial stability of the playgroup is maintained.

The health and safety representative works with the committee and staff to ensure that the playgroup satisfies health, safety and welfare requirements and beyond.

The fundraising and marketing team – these are the people who seek to raise the playgroup profile and plan the fun activities that both the children and wider community can enjoy.