What are the best practices for effective parent communication using the platform?

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Best Practices for Parent Communication in POGO Progress

1. Use the Built-In Parent Portal or Reports

• Share progress reports directly through POGO (PDF or portal access).

  Make sure the reports are clear, jargon-free, and positive in tone.

  Always include both:

  • Achievements / strengths
  • Targets / next steps

Parents should walk away knowing “what my child is doing well” and “what they need to focus on.”

2. Consistency of Timing

• Set a reporting calendar: e.g., end of each term, mid-term updates, EYFS “wow moments.”
• Inform parents in advance: “Reports will be available on the portal from 20th March.”
• Stick to the schedule — consistency builds trust.

3. Clarity of Language

• Avoid technical phrases like “below ARE” (Age-Related Expectations) without explanation.
• Instead of: “child is WTS in maths” → say: “working towards expected level in maths, especially in fractions.”
• Use plain English so every parent can understand.

4. Balance Positive & Constructive Feedback

• Begin with strengths before addressing areas to improve.
• End with an encouragement / next step: e.g., “With continued practice in reading fluency, they’ll be well on track for Year 5.”

Parents are more receptive when feedback feels supportive, not just critical.

5. Leverage Different Channels

POGO allows reports, newsletters, and parent meeting notes. Use a mix:

• Reports (summative) → academic performance and progress.
• Newsletters / Messages → whole-school updates.
• Parent Meetings Module → structured notes and next steps from meetings.

6. Use Data Visuals Wisely

• Dashboards and charts can be powerful, but keep them simple.
• A bar chart showing progress over time works better than overwhelming parents with raw percentages.
• Always explain the graphic in plain words.

7. Enable Two-Way Communication

• Encourage parents to reply or raise questions.
• If using POGO’s parent meeting module → log actions and share them with parents after meetings.
• Build trust by showing their feedback is valued.

8. Accessibility & Inclusivity

• Make sure communication is:
  • Mobile-friendly (parents often check on phones).
  • Translated if needed for EAL parents.
  • Available in print for those who don’t use digital tools.

9. Safeguard Privacy

• Always check permissions before sharing online reports.
• Ensure parent emails and logins are secure.
• Remind staff not to include sensitive safeguarding info in general reports.

10. Train Teachers on Tone

• Provide examples of effective comments.
• Run short CPD sessions on how to write parent-friendly feedback.
• Encourage staff to avoid copy-paste comments — parents notice!

Quick Wins

• Have a school-wide style guide for report comments.
• Use templates in POGO for consistency.
• Schedule a parent communication review each year to improve clarity.