This school year, we ask for schools to be more separation-aware

We’d like to wish all the children and parents getting ready for the next school intake all the best for the year ahead.

As the new school year starts, we’ve had a few calls and questions from mums, dads and caregivers about schooling, such as starting at a new school, staying engaged with teachers, and supporting children through the transition. These are fairly typical questions at this time of year.

Our approach is always to encourage cooperation wherever possible, while helping families make the most of these moments and experiences for their children.

Whether you’re parenting solo, sharing parenting across two homes, or somewhere in between, we recognise both the pressure and the possibilities that the coming weeks can bring. There are new routines to navigate, but also opportunities to make new memories and build on familiar ones – whether that’s happening in one home or two.

We’d encourage schools to be separation-aware and, wherever possible, to recognise each child’s lived reality and make reasonable adjustments to support their wellbeing, inclusion and education.

The focus should always be on the child: helping them feel secure, supported and able to enjoy and thrive in school, whatever their family circumstances.