Parent and Teacher Communication: What to Expect in Primary School

Good communication between parents and teachers plays a vital role in supporting your child’s development. In Singapore’s primary schools, open and respectful communication builds trust and ensures you stay informed about your child’s academic progress and emotional well-being.

1. Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs)

Most schools conduct one to two formal PTMs each year, typically after key assessment periods (e.g., mid-year or end-of-year).

Purpose: Discuss academic performance, social behaviour, and emotional adjustment.
Format: 10–15 minute time slots per family—brief but focused.
How to prepare: Note any concerns, questions, or observations about your child. Teachers appreciate parent input.
Tip: Arrive early and be concise to respect everyone's time.

2. School Communication Channels

Most schools use a mix of digital and physical platforms to share important updates and communicate with parents.

MOE’s Parents Gateway App

Receive announcements, event notifications, and consent forms
View school calendar and progress reports (in some schools)
Submit official communication with the school (e.g., absence reasons)

Student Handbook or Communication Book

Used for daily notes between parents and teachers (mainly in lower primary)
Includes timetable, spelling lists, reminders, and homework tracking

Emails or Class WhatsApp Groups

Teachers may share lesson photos or reminders through secure platforms
Some schools use moderated class chats for updates and coordination

3. When and How to Contact the Teacher

Teachers appreciate proactive communication but also have teaching duties and limited time. Here's how to connect respectfully:

Use official channels: Contact the school or teacher via email or Parents Gateway, not personal social media or late-night messages.
Be specific and concise: Include your child’s full name, class, and a clear subject line.
Examples of valid reasons to reach out:

Academic difficulties or observed behavioural changes
Absence due to illness or travel
Feedback on school programmes or requests for advice

Avoid: Complaints via group chats, making comparisons, or discussing other children.

4. Parent Etiquette and Expectations

Be respectful of teacher workload and time: Avoid calling during school hours or expecting instant replies.
Approach concerns constructively: Use “I noticed…” instead of accusations. Focus on collaboration, not blame.
Maintain confidentiality: Don’t share classroom details or photos without permission.
Support school policies: Uphold rules on punctuality, attire, homework, and digital use.

5. Staying Involved Without Overstepping

Volunteer for school events or reading programs if your schedule allows
Attend school briefings, workshops, and orientations to stay informed
Reinforce learning at home based on teacher feedback

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What if I can’t attend the scheduled PTM?

Inform the school early. Some teachers may offer alternate times or brief updates via call/email.

2. Can I meet the teacher more than once a year?

Yes. If you have concerns, you can request a meeting through the school. Teachers may also initiate follow-ups when needed.

3. Should I message the teacher via WhatsApp?

Unless explicitly allowed, avoid personal channels. Use official ones like Parents Gateway or school email.

4. Is it okay to share concerns in the class group chat?

No. For privacy and appropriateness, direct personal matters to the teacher or school admin privately.

5. What if I disagree with the teacher’s feedback?

Stay calm, ask for clarification, and aim to understand the context. Request a meeting if needed to align goals.

Conclusion

Positive parent-teacher communication builds a strong support system for your child. By being respectful, proactive, and collaborative, you can work together with teachers to create the best learning experience possible. Remember, you and the teacher are partners in your child’s growth.

Sources

Ministry of Education Singapore – “Parents Gateway”
National Parent-School Partnership Guidelines (MOE)
Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) – “Strengthening Parent-Teacher Relationships”