How Ashbourne Communicates with Parents Throughout the Year
When your child enters sixth form, the balance starts to shift. They’re treated more like an adult, expected to manage their own time and academic progress. But as a parent, you still want to feel connected, informed, and reassured. At Ashbourne College, we recognise that. We believe parents play a crucial role in their child’s journey, and our communication reflects that belief.
Partnership, Not Interference
Ashbourne’s approach to communication is built on mutual respect. We work hard to create a warm, inclusive environment where students feel supported to succeed. That same approach applies to our relationship with families.
We do not believe in keeping parents at arm’s length. We also don’t believe in overwhelming you with constant updates. Instead, we aim for consistent, meaningful communication that gives you a clear picture of your child’s experience and progress, while respecting their growing independence.
Progress Reports That Go Beyond Grades
Throughout the academic year, you’ll receive detailed reports on your child’s performance. These include assessment results, effort grades, attendance, punctuality, and personalised comments from teachers. This gives you an honest, well-rounded understanding of how your child is doing, and what steps are being taken to support further progress.
Ashbourne’s strategic and supportive approach means that reports are not just snapshots, but tools for progress. We don’t just highlight concerns, we outline how we’re addressing them, and how you can help too.
Regular Tutor Contact
Each student is assigned a personal tutor who meets with them regularly to track both academic performance and wellbeing. If concerns arise, the tutor will contact you directly, early and constructively. Our goal is never to alarm, but to problem-solve together.
We hold parent-tutor meetings at key points in the year, especially after internal assessments or Mock Week (which takes place in the penultimate week of HT2). These are an opportunity to speak with someone who knows your child well and to align on next steps.
Open Lines of Communication
Parents are welcome to get in touch at any time. Whether it’s a question about subject choices, wellbeing, university preparation or daily routines, we’re here to help. You’ll never feel that contacting the College is a burden or an intrusion. Our ethos is one of team mentality, we’re all on the same side.
We also make use of email, scheduled calls and in-person meetings depending on what’s most useful. We aim to be flexible, responsive and respectful of your time.
Respecting Growing Independence
At this stage, your child is learning to manage themselves, take initiative and make decisions. Ashbourne encourages this personal growth, while still providing a safety net. Our communication with parents reflects that balance, keeping you informed and involved, without taking control away from your child.
We’re proud of this balanced contrast: we treat students as young adults, while still recognising the value of parental involvement in their success.
Ultimately
Ashbourne is not a sink-or-swim environment. We believe that with the right support, every student can thrive. Communication with parents is one of the key ways we ensure that happens. You’ll always know where your child stands, how they’re being supported, and what the next steps are. It’s not just about information, it’s about partnership, and we’re committed to making that partnership work for you and your child.
1. How does Ashbourne College communicate with parents during the school year?
Ashbourne College provides consistent, meaningful communication through progress reports, tutor contact, and parent meetings. Parents stay informed about their child’s academic progress and wellbeing without feeling overwhelmed.
2. What information is included in Ashbourne’s progress reports?
Progress reports cover assessment results, effort grades, attendance, punctuality, and personalised teacher comments. These reports give parents a clear picture of both academic performance and overall student development.
3. How often do parents receive updates about their child’s progress?
Parents receive formal progress reports throughout the year, particularly after internal assessments and Mock Week. In addition, tutors keep in touch if specific concerns or achievements arise.
4. What role do personal tutors play in parent communication?
Each student has a personal tutor who tracks academic performance and wellbeing. Tutors reach out to parents directly if issues need attention, ensuring early and constructive support.