Getting involved

Involvement in school by parents and carers helps children achieve the best possible learning outcomes. You can participate in school life, both formally and informally, through the Parents and Citizens Association, school council, helping in the classroom or volunteering.

Make a special effort to attend your child’s class assemblies, parent-teacher meetings, sports days, open days, musical and other activities. This will help them feel positive about school and be a happy, active participant.

Parents and Citizen’s Associations

Most schools have a Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) for parents seeking an active role in the school. The P&C provides input into school decision-making and in partnership with the school, organises educational, social and fundraising activities. It has input into student wellbeing by supporting the school’s values system.

School Councils

Each school has a School Council comprising parents, the principal, staff and sometimes community members. It helps govern the school, including shaping and monitoring the school’s objectives, priorities and general policy directions. Other roles include approving school charges and contributions, determining the dress code, providing advice to the principal on religious education and related activities, and promoting the school in the community.

WACSSO and ACCSO

The Western Australian Council of State School Organisations Inc (WACSSO) is directed by affiliated P&Cs to represent the voice of parents and citizen’s associations within public schools. 

The Australian Council of State School Organisations (ACSSO) is the peak national organisation representing the interests of the parents, families and school communities of more than two million children attending public schools throughout Australia.