Parental Potential
From birth children are learning from their parents, for example, through communication and first hand experiences. When a child begins school the role parents play in educating their children does not come to an end. Parents are amongst those who have the greatest influence upon the values that their children learn in everyday life.
Teachers should endeavour to tap into the potential parents can provide in their children’s school life. It is important to ensure that parents are made aware of the values and ethos of the school and then be reassured of the added value they can provide in the education of their children.
Schools should alert parents to the benefits of employability and help them understand the learning that takes place when the dimensions of Education for Employability are addressed across the curriculum.
Workplace Visits
Much effective learning is hands on and becomes more relevant as it relates to the real world. In order to get the most out of a visit to or from someone in a workplace use the progression framework to support the design of learning opportunities. Examples might include,
- How are the skills that are used in school relevant to this person’s work?
- Why is it important to be aware of health and safety?
- Is routine important in this work?
- What different roles are needed to get the job done?
Learning Intentions
Although recommended, it is not always possible for teachers to make a visit to the location prior to the children’s; however contact with a link person is essential. It is important to make sure that industries are aware of the learning intentions, allowing them to focus on specific issues during the children’s visit. The achievement of learning intentions tends to be more successful when they are focused on a limited number of criteria. In order to maximise full learning potential teachers should ensure that their planning incorporates follow up work.
Liaison
During prior consultation with industry link personnel teachers should enquire about any safety hazards, this will allow class discussion with the children to take place. Discussion leading up to any visit can also contribute to developing important attitudes, including respect and courtesy towards the environment and people they encounter on their visit.
Keeping informed
Teachers should remember to give adequate notice of any visits to both the Principal and parents. During this time, teachers should refer to school policies on out of school visits and health and safety to ensure that maximum provision has been catered for. The correct ratio of adult supervision is vitally important and if schools invite parents to assist on class visits they should ensure also that school procedures for adult helpers is adhered to.
