What to do if your child gets a bad school report

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What should you do if your child gets a bad school report? We have all the advice you need to get them to pay attention in class and start achieving better grades.

Here we tackle some problem areas that might arise...

'Lacks concentration'

Maybe your child isn't interested in the subject, says Sue Percival, of the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT). 'Try to get them more involved by making it come alive maybe take them to an exhibition. And cut down on things that interfere with their concentration, like too much television.'

'Failed to score points in key stage exams'

Perhaps they can't stand the subject.. they can't be good at everything,' says Bob Carstairs, assistant general secretary of the Secondary Heads Association. 'Talk to your child about how you can help. Can you give them practice at home or ask for extra classes at school?'

Sue Percival adds, 'Ask if the school runs a mentoring scheme, where older pupils give the younger ones help. Or try setting up a rewards system.'

'Doesn't do enough homework'

'Provide an environment that encourages them to work, and try to keep any other children quiet,' says Bob. 'If they study to music, make sure it doesn't distract them. But don't be too strict, a child might work better if they study for half an hour, go out on their skateboard, and then return to their homework. Follow a pattern and stick to it, for instance, let them unwind when they get in, have tea, then start work. Keep a check on their homework diary.'

By Jane Bidder