A brighter future with thriving and authentic parent–school partnership — Racheal Smith

Parent engagement is no longer enough. As the government moves towards setting minimum expectations for parent–school relationships, the real opportunity is far greater: true partnership. Most parents want to play a meaningful role in their child’s education but lack clarity, confidence, or invitation. Schools are often caught in a negative cycle that keeps parents at a distance, where communication is broadcast to them rather than built with them. This session reframes the future from engaging parents to working alongside them. It shows how parent participation drives better outcomes, stronger relationships, and more resilient communities. Because thriving schools are not built for families, they are built alongside them.

About the speaker

Racheal Smith is the Head of Parent-Friendly Schools, having worked in Secondary for 20 years, 10 of which were in leadership. Racheal has an M.Ed. and completed four years of further research on the role of core values in effective learning. Racheal was Chief Examiner for Pearson and has written multiple books to support schools.