P.S.A. – Parent Support Advisor
Hello my name is Sue Barron and I work at Hazel Grove Primary School as the Parent Support Advisor. I have worked in the school for several years, firstly in the role of school administrator and now as Parent Support Advisor one day a week. For two other days in the week I work accross the borough. I have worked in schools in Stockport for many years prior to coming to Hazel Grove Primary School. I have three boys of my own. In my spare time I like to sing with a jazz band and I like to go walking.
Parent Support Advisor
This is a new role created as a government initiative. It is being trialled across the country to see if it has an impact on children’s attendance, achievement and enjoyment of school. It is in response to research by Charles De Fore that has shown that the biggest influence on a child is its parents, and that if parents can engage in activities with their children it will greatly help the child’s learning and development.
The role is also to act as a link between home and school, and to give parents support with any difficulties they may be experiencing that may effect their child, this can be anything from bereavement, family break-up, behaviour problems, special educational needs, or any other issues that all families experience some of from time to time. In addition PSAs offer courses for parents on a variety of subjects: positive parenting (Webster Stratton), surviving teenagers, cyber safety, speakeasy (Talking to your child about sex and relationships) and share. I also like to organise activities in school for parents and children to enjoy. The way your PSA can help is:
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To be a friendly ear for you to talk to in confidence.
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To liaise with other professionals on our behalf.
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To give moral support
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To signpost you to the appropriate agencies that can help you.
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To signpost parents to courses that they may find useful
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To organise and facilitate events for parents and their children to take part in together.
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To facilitate/co-facilitate courses for parents, e.g. parenting courses.