The College of Further Education’s “The Parent Voice” panel is made up of eight parents of students, with learners enrolled across apprenticeships, T Levels, vocational qualifications and those resitting maths and English.
A spokesperson said: “The initiative directly supports the college’s strategic ambition to deliver an aspirational curriculum that meets the needs of parents and carers, while also building and nurturing transformational stakeholder partnerships. The group came together earlier this year for their first face-to-face meeting, marking the beginning of a collaborative and influential relationship with the college. During the session, parents were presented with a keepsake book, outlining the core purpose of transforming lives and reinforcing that, as parents and carers of learners, they are vital members of the Hartlepool college community.”
One forum member, Laura Watts, said: “As a parent, it’s incredibly reassuring to know that Hartlepool College genuinely wants to hear our views and involve us in decisions that affect our children’s education and future careers. Parent Voice gives us a real opportunity to share ideas, raise questions and help shape the support, information and opportunities available to both current students and the young people who will join the college in the future. It feels like a true partnership between parents and the college.”
Lee Connor, a second member, added: “What impressed me most was the college’s commitment to listening and acting on feedback. Parent Voice gives parents and carers a meaningful platform to influence how the college develops, from the information provided to families through to the wider student experience. It’s encouraging to know that our opinions can help make Hartlepool College an even better place for future learners and ensure young people have the support they need to succeed.”
Key to the initial discussions was how the college can better support parents and carers through clear, accessible information.
Parents provided valuable insight into what the proposed college website redesign should include, particularly around guidance and advice for parents of Year 11 pupils and those with current students.
The Parent Voice forum will meet quarterly on a face-to-face basis, with regular communication via email in between meetings to enable quick decision-making and the sharing of live feedback.
Gary Riches, Deputy Principal and Chief Executive at Hartlepool College of Further Education, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have launched Parent Voice at Hartlepool College. Listening to parents and carers is integral to every decision we make for our learners, and this group will play a vital role in shaping how we support students to succeed. Their insight, challenge and ideas will help us continue to improve and ensure we are meeting the needs of both learners and their families.”
The college is keen to stress that Parent Voice is not an exclusive group. Hartlepool College warmly welcomes additional members, including parents and carers of young people currently in Year 11 who want to influence and shape what the college does, helping to make it an even better place for their children when they leave school.
Parents interested in joining Parent Voice or finding out more are encouraged to contact the college at [email protected].
