PTAextra Magazine Autumn 2026 | Page 24

Running your PTA

Everyday PTA: How to welcome new parents to your school

Ever wondered how other PTAs tackle the everyday issues, both big and small? In this edition of PTAextra, we look at how( and why) to welcome new parents to your school with the help of Becky Sutton, Chair of Owlsmoor PTA
For the school? Your PTA can free up some of their time by answering questions, help them forge those important early connections and uncover any pain points parents might be facing. Plus, parents who feel valued and included from the outset are more likely to engage with school life, which has a hugely positive impact on pupils’ educational outcomes.
And for your PTA? By giving parents a great first impression, they’ re more likely to attend your events, volunteer when they can and support fundraising activities. It really is a win-win!
Our PTA has a bit of a strong reputation locally. We hold some brilliant events which are open to the community. Parent feedback is often that they have chosen our school due to the PTA.
Images: Becky Sutton, Freepik
The benefits of welcoming parents? Keen, enthusiastic families, invested in the school as their children have seven years ahead of them!
- Becky Sutton, Chair of Owlsmoor PTA
Welcoming parents has so many benefits.
For parents? You can answer some of their burning questions, give them an insight into school life, provide opportunities to make friends with other parents and offer additional support with preloved uniform sales( and it’ s a great way to let them know they can donate their child’ s uniform to you when they grow out of it).
Many PTAs choose to welcome new parents in the summer term before the holidays, but you could( and should) welcome them at the start of the autumn term too.
You don’ t need to spend lots of money or organise a big event – in fact, it would probably be more impactful to arrange several smaller touch points during those first few weeks. A couple of coffee mornings, a small welcome pack and a printed flyer is a great way to get your PTA’ s name out there.
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