A 2015 OECD report says absorbing migrant children into the school system is the most effective way of integrating them into their new communities.
The report found second-generation immigrant students in Australia performed better in problem solving, maths and reading than non-immigrant students, and well above the OECD average.
It also states that the wellbeing of immigrant students is affected by how well schools and local communities help them overcome obstacles they face in succeeding at school and building a new life.
Undoubtedly, parents play an important role in this process.
The Australian Government calls this parent engagement which is being positively involved and active in your childs learning.
Migrant families and kids can face potential difficulties when settling into a new school.
Handling cultural diversity in the classrooms is difficult and requires preparation on part of teachers as well as a high level of engagement from parents.
Most parents will be invited to parent-teachers meetings or interviews.
The interviews, normally offered once or more a year, are one-on-one dialogs between a teacher and a parent provide an opportunity to discuss the children's progress and eventual problems at school.
Parents Victoria is an organisation that represents parents in Victorian public schools.
Executive Officer Gail McHardy says theyre a key way to communicate.
It's recommended that parents attend the interview with an open mind and talk honestly.
The majority of schools have access to translators.
But taking part of a childs school life goes beyond attending meetings.
Gaily McHardy says parents can volunteer in the classroom or during school activities.
