Enabling participation of diverse families: A discussion paper for P&Cs

Abstract

In 2008 the Federation of Parents & Citizens Association NSW commissioned Dr.Rawsthorne to undertake research on the barriers and facilitators of parental participation in the P&C movement (and more generally in their involvement at schools. This discussion paper reports the findings of research undertaken with active P&C members, potential P&C members, access staff and senior school staff. It places the findings from this research in the context of the broader scholarship and existing research. The aims of the Discussion Paper are to resource local P&C committees as well as generate discussion concerning participation. It does not advocate for a ‘one size fits all’ approach, instead recognises that strategies will be most effective if developed locally and tailored to the particular composition of individual schools and communities.