Parents’ evening is a valuable chance to understand how your child is progressing, not just academically, but socially, emotionally, and in terms of their overall school experience. With only a short appointment slot, it helps to arrive prepared with focused questions that give you meaningful insight and help you work in partnership with the school.
Here are the most useful questions to ask, grouped by theme, so you can make the most of the conversation.
1. Questions About Academic Progress
These questions help you understand how your child is performing in specific subjects and where they may need extra support.
- How is my child performing compared to age-related expectations?
- What are their strengths in this subject?
- Are there specific areas they find challenging?
- What recent work best reflects their current ability?
- How can I support their learning at home?
2. Questions About Classroom Engagement
Understanding how your child participates in class can reveal valuable insights about confidence, motivation, and learning style.
- Do they contribute to class discussions?
- How focused are they during lessons?
- Do they work well independently?
- Are they confident asking for help when they need it?
3. Questions About Behaviour and Social Development
School is a major social environment, and behaviour or friendships can have a big impact on learning and wellbeing.
- How does my child get along with others?
- Are there any behaviour concerns I should be aware of?
- Do they work well in group activities?
- Have you noticed any changes in their behaviour or mood?
4. Questions About Support and Next Steps
Good communication with teachers helps you identify what happens next and how the school plans to support your child.
- What are the key priorities for my child this term?
- Are there any interventions or support programmes they would benefit from?
- How will progress be monitored?
- What can we do together to help them improve?
5. Questions About Homework and Study Habits
Homework can be a window into learning habits and independence.
- Is the amount and difficulty of homework appropriate?
- Do they complete homework to the standard you expect?
- Are there particular types of tasks they struggle with?
- How can we establish better routines at home?
6. Questions for Older Children (Key Stage 3–4 / Secondary)
If your child is in secondary school, you may also want to ask about long-term pathways.
- Are they on track for their predicted grades?
- Which areas do they need to focus on for upcoming exams?
- Would you recommend any revision strategies or resources?
- Do you think their subject choices suit their strengths and interests?
Tips for Making the Most of Parents’ Evening
- Bring a list so you don’t forget anything.
- Take notes, it’s easy to forget details later.
- Stay open-minded; teachers may see behaviours or strengths that don’t appear at home.
- Follow up afterwards with your child to discuss what was said and agree next steps.
Parents’ evenings are most effective when they’re a two-way conversation focused on helping your child thrive. By asking the right questions, you’ll gain a clearer picture of their progress, strengths, and areas that need attention, so you can support them with confidence throughout the school year.
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