Parental involvement for early school leaving prevention

This review is based on an analysis of EU Commission and Council documents on early school leaving (ESL) and social inclusion, a dialogue and ongoing consultation process with the 10 municipalities engaged in the Urbact - PREVENT project and it interrogates international research relevant to this area. The report emphasises the need of a systemic, holistic, and differentiated approach to prevent early school leaving in Europe. It highlights the importance of family support, bridging health and education domains, and addressing socio-economic exclusion. Key areas include outreach (community and individual family), health, and democratic systems in schools. The report advocates for community-based family support centres, lifelong learning centres, and improved communication between parents, students, and schools. It also stresses the necessity to address system fragmentation, promote inclusive systems, and ensure active parental involvement in school policy and practices.

Written by Dr. Paul Downes