Parent Learning and Engagement at Woodside Primary Academy

At Woodside Primary Academy, we believe that strong partnerships with parents and carers are key to every child’s success. We strive to be a hub for our local community, offering meaningful opportunities for families to engage in their children’s learning journey.

Parents are invited to take part in a variety of enriching activities, including:

• Stay, Play and Learn sessions in class (Family Fridays)
• Coffee mornings and themed breakfasts
• Leader in Me workshops, where families explore the ‘7 Habits of Highly Effective Children’ together
• Open mornings in Early Years, with hands-on activities and Q&A with staff
• ‘Proud Moment’ postcards to celebrate achievements at home
• Parent Gym 6 week parenting programme.

These initiatives help build a supportive learning community, where parents feel empowered, informed, and connected. Together, we ensure that every child at Woodside thrives both in school and beyond.

Parent Gym

At our school, we are committed to supporting not only our children but also their families. Parent Gym is a free, evidence-based parenting programme designed to help parents and carers develop practical skills, build confidence, and strengthen family relationships. It is suitable for families with children aged 2 to 11 years. 

The programme consists of six engaging and interactive sessions led by trained Parent Gym coaches. Parents have the opportunity to share experiences, learn new strategies, and gain practical tools to help children thrive both at home and at school. 

What does Parent Gym cover?

The six-week programme :

• Chat – Developing positive communication and listening skills. 
• Love – Building children's self-esteem, confidence and independence. 
• Behave – Understanding behaviour, setting boundaries and using positive discipline strategies. 
• Care – Promoting positive physical and emotional wellbeing for the whole family. 
• Discover – Supporting children's learning, curiosity and success at school. 
• Together – Strengthening family relationships and planning for the future. 

Benefits of Parent Gym

Parents who attend Parent Gym often report:

• Increased confidence in their parenting.
• Improved relationships with their children.
• A calmer and happier home environment.
• Greater understanding of children's behaviour and development.
• Opportunities to connect with and learn from other parents. 

Parent Gym provides a welcoming, supportive space where parents can reflect on family life, share experiences and discover practical ways to help their children flourish. 

For information about upcoming Parent Gym courses, please contact Kate Raley, DDSL and Family Liaison Lead.

In addition, Woodside provides links to adult learning resources to support parents in furthering their own education.

These resources empower parents to grow alongside their children, building confidence, skills, and community connections.