Step-By-Step Special School Parent Handbook: putting a parent perspective on special school information

It's confusing for parents when a child or young person starts special school, with forms to complete and information to read and understand. Typically, a folder or envelope with separate sheets of literature can add to the confusion… with sheets and small booklets easily mislaid.

It can unintentionally become an information gathering process…don't forget the person.

Creating a good impression from the beginning

Our Parent Handbook shows parents that you are professional and have thought of their needs. It takes them, 'step-by-step', through which forms to complete, puts a parent-friendly emphasis on normal 'school-to-parent' information, and keeps all policies in one place.

Perforated 'tear-off' forms

Each form has a perforated edge, so parents simply complete it, tear it off and give it to the school. There are also sections featuring Key Information, FAQs, Policies, Term Times etc.

The parent perspective

Within the Handbook will be parent quotes, placed strategically to highlight relevant topics, i.e. a parent quote about the school helping their child to take medicine (for a section on medicine), or what a parent did when they were late for school (highlighting what to do if late), or commenting on the home-school agreement and why they feel it's important etc.