Join the Scottish Assembly of Parents and Carers

Are you a parent or carer of a school age child in Scotland? Then you could be part of the Scottish Assembly of Parents and Carers! The Assembly is made up of lots of different parents and carers from all kinds of backgrounds. It’s a great opportunity to make your voice heard and help shape the way children are educated in Scotland.

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What does the Assembly do?

It brings parents and carers in Scotland together to discuss education issues of interest.
It makes sure parents’ views, ideas and experiences are heard by the Scottish Government, national education partners and, of course, the national parents’ organisation, Connect.

How do I become a member of the Assembly?

Any parent or carer of a school age child in Scotland can apply by filling in this online application form.
We can help you with this - please get in touch at info@parentcarerassembly.scot.

What will Assembly members do?

Members will come together in small or larger groups to discuss education issues of interest. These will be chosen by Assembly members, and sometimes by the Scottish Government and education partners.
All members will be invited to share views and ideas – through focus groups, surveys and online or face-to-face meetings. Some issues might be discussed regularly online by the full Assembly, others by focus groups.
Members will individually choose what they want to discuss, opting in to their own areas of interest. They will also decide how, and when, they have these discussions.
The Assembly members will be supported by Connect and the Assembly’s Project Co-Ordinator.

What skills will I need?

Just bring your experiences and your interest! The Assembly will work well if members are:

respectful of others
able to listen
willing to learn
and keen to share their thoughts and good ideas.

Ask Connect about their 'Working Well Together' document. This sets out some ideas for helping Assembly members to collaborate and contribute their valued insights. If you need support to be able to participate, please let us know.

What can Assembly members expect?

You will be kept informed about the Assembly and its impact.
Information will be accessible and in plain English.
You will be listened to, and heard, respectfully.
You will be able to listen to other parents and carers, and sometimes education partners, in the spirit of co-operation and equality.
A small gratuity will be given for attending meetings, focus groups and discussion groups as a ‘thank you’ for giving up your time.