Education Minister Evarist Bartolo this morning appealed for greater parental involvement in school councils, adding that he was not happy with the current level and quality of parents’ participation in their children’s education.

“The participation of parents is crucial for children, teachers and heads of schools.

“It’s good that parents involve themselves in fundraising and additional voluntary work but, ultimately, parental involvement should also focus on the educational experience.”

Parents forming part of school councils are being encouraged to discuss the curriculum and the way it is being taught and implemented, as well as to organise a portion of the school funds which can be allocated for repairs, buying new books and for improving the physical environment.

“There is still an element of resistance from certain teachers and heads of schools, who tend to look at parental involvement as unnecessary interference.

“But this mentality needs to change. Research demonstrates that 70 per cent of the behaviour of children is influenced by outside school factors while 30 per cent influenced by factors within the school. So even if a school operates smoothly, children are still influenced by their families, society and the community.

“Therefore this 70 per cent should collaborate closely with the remaining 30 per cent.”

School council elections will be held on January 23 while nominations open between tomorrow until January 15. Nomination forms are available from schools and will also be accepted online.

Parents can vote at the school or send their vote with their child.

The Maltese Association of Parents of State School Students, a new NGO which aims to give a voice to parents, will also be holding its first election on January 23 and will elect a representative from each of the 10 colleges.