This case study provides an overview of the why the parent group was set up and the impact it has had. With thanks to Anna Feltham and Shade Ajigbeda
Why the group was set up
The Clapton Girls' Black and Global Majority Parent Group (GMPG) was established to create a safe space for parents to discuss ideas, share concerns and create meaningful changes.
Establishing and maintaining the group
The team worked hard to build an effective parent group by:
- Gaining the full commitment and support of the Headteacher, Senior Leadership Team and the Board of Trustees to work in partnership with parents and students
- Creating a welcoming environment and a safe space to speak openly
- Agreeing on a range of initiatives that either addressed specific challenges or celebrated successes
- Developing initiatives relating to the curriculum, cultural workshops and events, and visibility and voice
Success and impact
Establishing the GMPG has led to numerous benefits, including:
- Parents as partners - the ability to connect and communicate
- Relationship building - dismantling pre-conceived ideas of parents
- Sense of belonging - amplifying the voice of black and global majority students
Lasting impact
The lasting impact within the school has been seen in many areas including:
- Commitment from all stakeholders to create an antiracist school
- Providing feedback and input on policies and procedures, particularly around behaviour and suspensions
- Organising cultural workshops and ensuring that activities increase cultural competency of students, staff and parents
- Working closely with school staff who have fed back that attending GMPG meetings highlights has increased their understanding of parent perspectives
However, it is also important to remember “progress not perfection”.
Benefits for all
- The ability to connect and communicate
- Dismantling pre conceived ideas of parents
- Amplifying the voice of Black and Global majority parents
- The ability to connect and communicate
Feedback and reflections from parents and carers
“It’s a great opportunity to make a difference and bring about positive change.”
“I’ve loved being part of GMPG as they make it very easy to talk about difficult and challenging issues.”
“There is still work to be done. We continue to inspire parents and promote the importance of being involved.”
“I enjoy the fact that I could learn more about my history and more about my culture. I’m mixed race.”
“I found the workshop extremely informative. I learnt a lot about different cultures and how they influence music today and in the past.”
Questions for schools to reflect on to develop practice
- Do you have a parent group?
- Is it racially diverse?
- Do you think a Global Majority group would benefit your setting?