We report to parents, in writing and at parent conferences, on at least six separate occasions throughout the academic year.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports are sent home twice a year, usually in the early part of Term 1 and once again towards the end of Term 2. These reports do not provide a summative statement of performance. The first report is also referred to as a “settling-in” report and is used to inform the first formal parent-teacher conference in Term 1.
WRITTEN REPORTS
Every student will receive a written report twice a year, once in the middle of the year in January, and once at the end of the year in June.
BMIS is developing a continuous assessment approach to student evaluation in the classroom, which means that all homework, class work, projects, tests and other exhibitions of learning will be reflected in each written report.
Written reports will be produced through the ManageBac assessment and reporting portal (see below). Written reports will not be issued earlier than the published date unless in exceptional circumstances. Parents should contact the Head Teacher with any requests.
PARENT–TEACHER CONFERENCES
Formal conferences are scheduled twice a year, once in the middle of Term 1 and once in the first half of Term 2.
Parent-teacher conferences are usually arranged on an appointment basis during the school day. Classes do not run on these days and we encourage students to attend the conferences, as much as possible, with their parents.
STUDENT-LED CONFERENCES (PYP & MYP ONLY)
Student-led conferences take place in term 3 for PYP and MYP students only. Throughout the school year, students and their teachers will compile a portfolio of work that represents growth and development across the whole range of learning the student has experienced. This portfolio is presented to parents at the conference by the student. The student is responsible for the contents of the portfolio and for the organization of the conference with their parents. The student-led conference is a requirement for all PYP and MYP students and is held during the school day. Parents are expected to make time during their busy schedules to attend this conference with their child.
MEETING REQUESTS
Parents are encouraged to call and schedule meetings when they have any concern at all regarding their child’s progress. Please do not wait for a formal conference to raise an issue about your child, when an early intervention would be more productive. We strongly encourage parents to contact the child’s tutor, subject teacher (including the EAL or learning support teacher if applicable) or the counselor if and when the need arises. Early intervention to tackle problems means that we can help to overcome them sooner rather than later. Collaboration between home and school is crucial to the successful development of each and every child in our school.
MANAGEBAC
Students have online access to their assignments and their individual portfolios, and receive feedback from teachers through Managebac. The Secondary school is currently in the process of making this system available to parents.
