Teacher Advisor and Subject Interviews
A How to Guide to for Parents to Get the Most from Interviews
As we embark on our first set of interviews for the year, I would like to take a moment to highlight the importance of these meetings for both parents and their students. At Damascus College, we believe that Teacher Advisor interviews and subject interviews are crucial components of a student's academic success and overall experience at the College.
Teacher Advisor (TA) interviews provide an opportunity for parents to meet with their student's TA, discuss their progress, and identify areas where they may need additional support or resources, particularly in the areas of Social Emotional Learning. These interviews also allow Teacher Advisors to gain valuable insights into their students' home lives and provide insights and supports to maximise their learning at school and at home.
Subject interviews, on the other hand, provide students with the opportunity to discuss their interests and passions with subject specialists, receive advice on subject selection and pathways, and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. These interviews can also help students to identify any areas where they may need additional support and guidance.
To help parents make the most of these interviews, we have put together a guide with some prompts to assist you in asking the right questions and maximising your student's success at Damascus College.
1. What are my student's strengths and weaknesses in this subject?
It is essential to know your student's strengths and weaknesses in a subject to provide them with the necessary support and guidance. This information can help you to identify areas where your student may need extra help or resources and enable you to work with their teacher to develop a plan to address these areas.
2. What are the expectations for this subject, and how can I help my student meet them?
Understanding the expectations for a subject can help you to support your student in achieving their academic goals. Ask your student's teacher about the assessment criteria, expected outcomes, and any resources or study techniques that can help your student succeed.
3. How can I support my student's learning at home?
Parental involvement in their student's learning is essential for success. Ask your student's teacher for guidance on how you can support their learning at home. This could include providing a quiet study space, setting aside time for homework and revision, or working with your student on specific tasks or projects.
4. What extracurricular activities or opportunities are available to my student in this subject area?
At Damascus College, we believe that extracurricular activities are essential for students to develop their interests and passions. Ask your student's teacher about any clubs, competitions, or events related to the subject that your student may be interested in participating in.
5. How can my student maximise their College experience beyond the classroom?
Finally, ask your student's teacher about opportunities for your student to get involved in the broader College community, such as volunteering, mentoring, or leadership roles. These experiences can help your student develop essential life skills and enhance their overall College experience.
In conclusion, parent-teacher interviews and subject interviews are crucial components of a student's academic success and overall experience at Damascus College. By asking the right questions and working with your student's teachers, you can help your student reach their full potential and make the most of their time at the College.