The Rockingham Montessori School operates only because parents give their time. The Rockingham Montessori School sees parent involvement in support of the school goals as essential.The success and development of the school has been through the time, energy and expertise given willingly.

Parent/Teacher Interviews

Both parents (or legal guardians) are invited to observe in their child's classroom at least twice a year. A parent/teacher conference should follow. This communication is invaluable and essential. These discussions help both the teacher and parents/guardians, but more importantly, the child. This is a valuable opportunity to watch your child's progress and to familiarise yourself with the program and how it operates. Children need to settle in, so observations commence when a child has had at least one term in the class. Parents of the children in the Junior and Upper Primary rooms will receive a written report bi-annually.

Classroom involvement

The success of our school is to a large extent due to the willingness of parents to give time and energy and contribute to the school regularly. Over and above, we encourage parents to share their skills and hobbies with us for the childrens' benefit. Parents are invited to see the teacher if they would like to contribute as a volunteer on a part-time basis. In the interest of the safety of our children, all volunteers are required to provide a signed Statutory Declaration and Working with Children Clearance.

Parent Education Evenings

Parent Education Evenings are held at least twice a year. They cover Montessori topics, curriculum or equipment. Notification of these meetings will be announced in the newsletter and on the parent notice board. It is beneficial if both parents are able attend.

Parent support at home

An understanding of the Montessori philosophy and class observations aid parents in providing support for their child at home. Parents choose our school because they support the Montessori philosophy. Gradually they read and understand where this freedom (within limits, i.e. independence, sense of co-operation and respect for self and others) is leading. Children need to see parents live the values they wish to impart. When parents want the child to be kind, gentle, thoughtful,polite,or patient, they should try to exhibit these characteristics.The Montessori approach is based on a profound respect for the child. Encourage children to contribute by helping in the home. Practise kindness and firmness as this evokes respect from the child. Encourage mutual respect. Give reasons and explain the viewpoint of others, but don't drag this out into an exhausting discussion.Spending time with children playing, talking and working together makes for happy children. This is the best support parents can give. Local libraries are very important. Reading to children from books borrowed regularly is essential in the primary school years. Regular hectic weekends are not advisable as children are tired or are not inclined to work when they return to school on Monday.

Busy Bee

Each family is required to complete a four-hour job of grounds and/or building maintenance, care and repair each term. These jobs are noted in the Grounds and Maintenance File in front office and in the newsletter every fortnight. Parents sign for a particular job and may complete it before the set day for the Busy Bee. The busy bee is usually the second weekend of term. Parents can choose to pay a fee if they are not able to participate in the Busy Bee.