A new strategic framework aimed at helping those who work with parents and families has been launched.

The first of its kind in Scotland, the framework was launched by the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Jenny Gilruth and includes information on topics such as parental entitlements, legislation, and professional learning opportunities.

The development of the Strategic Framework for Parental Involvement, Parental Engagement, Family Learning and Learning at Home was led by Education Scotland in partnership with a range of organisations including Initial Teacher Education providers, local authorities, Scottish Government, and national parent organisations.

The Framework provides a structure to support ongoing professional learning opportunities for practitioners who work with parents and families, and who are involved in delivering training to the workforce.

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills Jenny Gilruth said:

“We want Scotland to be the best place for children and young people to grow up and it is important to acknowledge the crucial role that parents, carers and families play in shaping the future of children’s learning.

Families are diverse, and each family should be respected and supported. Involving and engaging parents, carers and families creates a collaborative environment where everyone works together to provide the best possible education for our children and young people.”

Gillian Hamilton, Interim Chief Executive of Education Scotland, said:

“Engaging with parents and families is essential in creating a learning culture within families, and in raising the attainment of our children. From research we know that this can have a lifelong effect on family's aspirations and attitudes towards learning which, in turn, can lead to routes out of poverty.

That is why the development of this Framework has been such an important piece of work as it will support educators who are currently engaging and working with parents and families across Scotland. It will also be an extremely useful tool for the future teacher workforce and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring parental involvement, parental engagement, family learning and learning at home is considered from the outset.”