S1 E04 | How to Create a 'No Stress' Parents' Evening

Show Notes for Episode 4: How to Master Parents’ Evenings Without Stress

Episode Overview & Promise

In this episode, we’re tackling parents’ evenings! I’ll share strategies for staying calm and organised, and getting the most out of each conversation. Whether you’re a new teacher or a seasoned pro, these tips will help you reduce stress and keep each meeting productive. Stick around for my free downloadable Parents’ Evening Template to streamline your prep!

Resources Mentioned:

• Parents’ Evening Template: Download here
• Grind Coffee Subscription: £10 off your first order with code: KATIE-PW2474M
• Instagram: Follow me for more tips at @miss.estruch.teach.and.tell
• Register for the FREE CPD sessions here: https://missestruchbiology.mykajabi.com/free-cpd-lessons 

Episode Highlights: Top Tips for a Calm, Productive Parents’ Evening

Listen to the full episode for detailed guidance on creating a stress-free parents' evening experience.

Key Takeaways

1. Create a Simple Template – Focus on Essentials

• Why It Works: A basic template keeps conversations focused on the most relevant points, ensuring you cover strengths, areas for improvement, and next steps.
• How to Do It: Include specific assessment dates, revision resources, and a list of topics or strategies parents can use to help at home.

  2. Set a Time Limit per Student – And Stick to It!

• Why It Works: Staying on time keeps the evening manageable and fair for all parents.
• How to Do It: Use a timer if needed, and don’t be afraid to remind parents of the time if necessary. For online appointments, the system’s automatic cut-off can help keep things on track.

  3. Send a Follow-Up Email – But Only If Needed!

• Why It Works: Keeps follow-up work to a minimum while offering extra support only when genuinely necessary.
• How to Do It: Only offer a follow-up email when it’s essential to continue the conversation—this saves you from extra work and ensures each meeting is efficient.

Confession of the Week

A true confession moment! I once started discussing the wrong student with a parent during a parents' evening—two students with the same first name caught me off guard! I realised mid-way through and managed to recover by focusing on the child’s positive improvements (albeit with some quick thinking). Lesson learned: always double-check those names!

Quick Win of the Week

Prepare a small batch of handouts with common study tips, recommended resources, or answers to frequent questions. Hand these out (or send them ahead of time) to save yourself from repeating standard advice in every meeting.

Resource Roundup

• Parents’ Evening Template: This free, adaptable sheet will help you stay on track and is available for download in the show notes.
• Grind Coffee Discount: Enjoy a fresh coffee subscription and save £10 on your first order with my referral code KATIE-PW2474M.

Thank you for tuning in to Miss Estruch Teach & Tell!
If you found today’s episode helpful, hit subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Join me on Instagram at @Miss.Estruch.Teach.And.Tell for more resources, tips, and free CPD content. See you next week—don’t forget to bring your coffee, and I’ll bring the Teach & Tell!