Assessment for learning involves parents and carers sharing information with teachers and practitioners about children's development, interests, strengths and needs, as well as schools sharing information with families.

It is important that staff in schools and settings see parents and carers as co-educators, and that there is a two-way flow of information between home and school in which parents' and carers' contributions are valued.

This two-way exchange will help the adults involved to plan learning opportunities for children, both at home and at school, that will capture the children's interests, extend their experiences and ensure that they make progress.

This sharing of information will provide support to parents and carers, helping them to build on children's learning at home.

This aspect of assessment is a continuing process.

Useful Resources

Postcards for parents and carers on literacy learning

Postcards for parents explaining key concepts in mathematics and suggesting activities

Parents: Partners in Learning: Guidance for schools (Ref: 0413-2004G) and video materials (Ref: 0412-2004GV)

The Learning Journey guides are a resource for parents of children of any age group. They contain information for parents about the subjects their children will be taught at school and what sort of thing they will be learning.

Information and research on working with parents

Reading Connects materials for parents