In England and Wales, research findings have led to increased Government interest in how the involvement of parents and carers can contribute to raising the attainment of pupils and students.
- In 2001, the DfES asserted that: “Parents are of course key partners in their children’s learning and it is critical that modern school systems involve and respond to them.”
- By 2007, the Government’s position had been strengthened further: “Parents and the home environment the create are the most important factor in shaping their children’s well-being, achievement and prospects.”
- In December of the same year, The Children’s Plan, stated that parental support was “an essential foundation for achievement”, and was “ vital at each stage of children’s development”.
- In addition to the development of policy documents, the Government has provided practical guidance on parental involvement, including materials produced in 2003 and 2009.
