The role of parents in enhancing academic performance in secondary schools in the Metro-Central Education District, Western Cape

Abstract

The role of parents in their children’s education presents significant evidence in schools’ academic results, when parental roles in education are given priority. It is noted that parents play a significant role in improving a school’s academic results. The aim of this study was to investigate the techniques utilised by schoolteachers to involve parents in children’s education in selected secondary schools within the Metro-Central Education District, Western Cape. A qualitative research approach was utilised, employing research methods which included face-to-face interviews, reading school polices and going through parents’ meeting minutes. The investigation focused on two secondary schools that were purposefully selected to participate in the study. This investigation revealed that participants in the study overlooked the role of parents in their schools. Therefore, although they involve parents in some school activities, there is a need for training on how the school principals should optimally involve parents in school activities.