5 Questions to Ask at Parents’ Evening

Parents’ evenings are one of the most valuable opportunities for families to understand how their child is progressing at school. They allow parents to hear directly from teachers, gain insight into academic performance, and discuss wellbeing and social development. However, with limited time during each meeting, it’s important to make the most of it by asking thoughtful and focused questions. Here are five key questions to consider asking at your next parents’ evening, inspired by the practices of this independent school in Surrey.

 

1. How Is My Child Progressing Compared to Expectations?

This is a great starting point for any parents’ evening conversation. Every child learns at their own pace, but understanding how your child’s progress compares to age-related expectations helps you identify areas of strength and those needing improvement. Teachers can provide insights into academic levels, recent assessments, and how your child has grown since the start of the school year.

You might also ask for examples of your child’s work to see how they’re applying what they’ve learned. This makes it easier to support their development at home and celebrate achievements in a meaningful way.

 

2. What Are Their Strengths and Areas for Improvement?

Every child has unique talents — whether academic, creative, or social. By asking this question, you can better understand where your child excels and where they may need more support or encouragement. Teachers can highlight subjects where your child shows enthusiasm and ability, as well as topics they may find challenging.

Don’t be afraid to ask for practical advice on how to help at home. For example, if your child struggles with writing, their teacher may suggest reading together more often or encouraging short daily journal entries to build confidence.

 

3. How Does My Child Contribute to the Classroom Environment?

Academic success is only one part of the bigger picture. Schools also place great importance on social skills, teamwork, and behaviour. Asking about your child’s contribution to the classroom helps you understand how they interact with peers, whether they work well in groups, and how they respond to challenges or instructions.

This question also allows teachers to share positive stories you may not hear otherwise — such as moments of kindness, leadership, or creativity. Knowing how your child fits into the wider classroom community can offer valuable insight into their personal growth and confidence.

 

4. What Can We Do at Home to Support Their Learning?

Home and school work best when they work together. Teachers often appreciate when parents show an active interest in supporting their child’s learning outside the classroom. Whether it’s reading more frequently, practising times tables, or engaging in creative projects, teachers can offer specific ideas suited to your child’s needs and interests.

This is also a chance to discuss routines — such as homework, screen time, and sleep — that can influence how well your child performs at school.

 

5. Is There Anything Else I Should Know About My Child’s Progress or Wellbeing?

Finally, it’s worth ending with an open-ended question. Sometimes, teachers notice things that don’t appear in reports — such as shifts in confidence, friendships, or learning habits. Asking if there’s “anything else” encourages honest, holistic feedback that can help you better support your child both academically and emotionally.

 

In Summary

Parents’ evenings are more than just progress updates — they’re an opportunity to strengthen communication between home and school. By asking the right questions, you can gain a clearer picture of your child’s learning journey, celebrate successes, and identify ways to nurture their development. The most important thing is to approach the conversation as a partnership, working together to help your child reach their full potential.

 

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