Welcoming new families to the school community, virtually!

Parents Education

24 June 2020

Steph Barclay is Marketing and Communications Executive at Parentkind

It can be daunting enough to be starting at a new school at the best of times, let alone in the middle of a global pandemic! Thankfully, we know how amazing you and your PTA teams are at welcoming new families on board.

We’ve put together some virtual ways that you can engage with and welcome new parents and carers to the school, all from the comfort of your own home.

Welcome pack

Normally, you would be inviting new parents to the Summer Fair and introducing your PTA at Welcome Meetings, so this year your welcome packs will probably be the first time new families hear from you. These are a great way of telling them about who you are and all the wonderful activities and events you run to support the school. Let them know about your social media pages and what’s coming up during the year. You could ask a current member of the PTA to write a piece about why they joined and include a photographic who’s who of the committee.

Virtual coffee morning

Use our template poster to spread the word about your virtual welcome coffee morning. Add a message to the school’s website and any social media new parents may have access to. Set up an online meeting, pop the kettle on, and enjoy meeting some new parents! This is a no-pressure way for you to chat informally and for new parents to ask any questions they may have.

Online quiz

Virtual quizzes have been hugely popular over the last few months and are a great way to welcome new members to the school community. With the aim being to have fun rather than scare participants, make sure your questions are suited to the audience and that answers are clear (maybe consider a family one so you can involve the children!). We’ve put together some top tips for how to run a fabulous event.

However you decide to welcome new families to the school community, we’re sure you’ll do a fabulous job. On our Facebook group, let us know how you’re spreading the word and if you have any questions, get in touch with our Membership Support Team.