Hodman’s insight was incredibly informative and helped us reflect on how we can better support and engage with our families.
This valuable session helped us better understand the unique barriers that Somali families may face and guided us in developing more positive, culturally sensitive relationships with parents and carers.
Our goal is to ensure that communication with all families is always clear, respectful, and effective—so that every child receives the right support to thrive. By actively learning about the communities that make our school so vibrant, we are working to make experiences like annual reviews more meaningful and supportive for all families.
Community engagement can help to create an inclusive educational environment where all students feel seen and valued. As our schools become increasingly diverse, actively involving the community can help schools to bridge the cultural gaps that may exist and foster a deeper sense of belonging for everyone.
We are also committed to working more closely with parents and reaching out to the Somali community for future partnerships. This includes inviting families to take part in coffee mornings, workshops, and other school events where we can listen, learn, and grow together.
One staff member shared: “Super interesting and helpful! Thank you!”. Another staff member shared: “ I learnt a lot about the Somali culture that will help me to better understand and engage with our school community” —a reflection of the enthusiasm and openness with which our team is embracing this learning journey.
