Schools are more than just places where lessons are taught and tests are taken—they are vibrant communities where students and families come together to grow and support one another. 

Your child’s time at school is brief, but the impact of a strong school community lasts a lifetime. Here’s why being an active part of your school community can pave the way for the road to success for your child—and for you! 

It feels good to belong 

For students, feeling like they belong is crucial to their overall development. Being part of a school community provides them with a network of peers, teachers, and mentors who care about their progress, as well as their mental health and emotional wellbeing. When students feel seen and valued, they are more likely to engage in learning, participate in extracurricular activities, and strive for their personal best.

When parents and families also become involved in the school community, research shows that it leads to better outcomes for students. A study by the Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth found that parent engagement is associated with significant academic achievement and behavioural improvement for students of all ages. 

Inclusivity in action 

A thriving school community is one that actively celebrates diversity and works to ensure everyone feels included. Schools that promote inclusivity create safe spaces where students, families and staff from all backgrounds and abilities feel respected and valued.

For students themselves, this can mean opportunities to learn about different cultures, perspectives, and experiences, which helps build empathy and understanding. 

Lifelong friendships for parents too

It’s not just the students who benefit from being part of a school community. When your child joins a school, you become part of a group of like-minded people who are on the same journey. 

Your school will provide opportunities to connect and build relationships with one another. You will be able to share insights, lend support, and celebrate successes together. Importantly, both students and parents can create lifelong friendships that will endure well beyond your child’s schooling years. 

Family and Faith at Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS)

Recognising the importance of community, SCS has developed a Family and Faith program that helps to build welcoming and vibrant school communities.

Led by a team of family educators, the program provides opportunities for connection including a variety of invitational events, information sessions and activities, that connect families with the religious life of the school and the parish, and support them in the spiritual and social development of their children. 

 This school term and beyond, take every opportunity to connect, support, and celebrate your child’s journey—it’s an experience that will shape their future and yours.

An emphasis on excellence in all areas of education – from academic to vocational, sport and the arts – helps Sydney Catholic Schools nurture the potential of all students in their 147-strong network of primary and secondary schools.

Click here to find your nearest Catholic school.