Parent Teacher Associations

The primary functions of a parent teacher association (PTA) will vary from school to school, but in general they will be to advance the education of pupils.

This is normally achieved by:

• promoting a co-operative partnership between the governing body, staff, parents and others associated with the school

• engaging in activities, often of a social nature, that will provide facilities or equipment that support the school.

The keys to success for any PTA are an effective committee and a positive working relationship with the Head.

It is important to differentiate between a PTA and Friends, Parents or Home-School Associations. These have different memberships to a PTA but their functions and charitable objectives are broadly similar, although there is usually a greater emphasis on fundraising.