By: Hope Media
New McCrindle research reveals Australian parents value updates about their child’s social and emotional wellbeing just as much as academic results.
McCrindle’s latest education insights report found parents are equally likely to value updates about their child’s behaviour and social development (55 per cent) as they are updates about grades and academic results (55 per cent).
The findings reflect a growing desire among families to understand not just how their children are performing at school, but how they are coping, connecting and growing as people.
The Whole Child Matters
The report found today’s parents increasingly expect schools to communicate about social and emotional wellbeing alongside academic progress.
In fact, the largest gap between what parents value and what they feel schools are delivering relates to updates on their child’s social and emotional wellbeing. Parents rated this as a high priority, yet many felt they were not receiving enough information in this area.
Researchers identified a seven-point gap between parental expectations and school performance when it comes to wellbeing communication, making it the biggest disconnect in the study.
Parents are Looking for Partnership
The research suggests families want communication that feels collaborative rather than transactional.
Almost half of parents (48 per cent) said a genuine parent-school partnership involves two-way communication with opportunities to provide feedback. Meanwhile, 47 per cent said they want information that helps them reinforce learning at home.
Approachable staff, clear communication and feeling that the school is a trusted ally were also key factors in building strong parent relationships.
Belonging Starts With Being Known
One of the strongest findings in the report centres on belonging.
When asked what belonging to a school community looks like, the most common response was that teachers know their child well, with 51 per cent of parents selecting this option.
Parents also highlighted feeling welcomed at school events (48 per cent), sharing values with the school (46 per cent) and feeling comfortable on campus (44 per cent).
According to the report, parents are not simply looking for information. They are looking for assurance that their children are genuinely known, valued and supported.
More Than Marks
Academic success remains important to Australian families.
However, the findings suggest parents increasingly view education through a broader lens that includes emotional wellbeing, relationships, belonging and personal development.
As schools continue adapting to changing expectations, the message from parents appears clear: report cards still matter, but they are only part of the story.
Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.
Feature image: Canva
