9 Mistakes to avoid when running your PTA

Resources
Blog
9 Mistakes to avoid when running your PTA

Running a Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a rewarding endeavour that strengthens the school community and enhances students’ educational experiences. However, even the most dedicated PTAs can encounter challenges that hinder their effectiveness. And making fundraising for your school cause, like new school PE Equipment or a new school canopy. To help your PTA thrive, we’ve compiled a list of common pitfalls and practical strategies to avoid them.

1. Assuming All Parents Are the Same

Parents have diverse backgrounds, interests, and time constraints. To engage a broader group, offer various volunteering opportunities that cater to different schedules and skills. Whether it’s a one-time event or ongoing support, flexibility can encourage more participation.

2. Overlooking Volunteer Appreciation

Volunteers are the backbone of any PTA. Regularly acknowledge their contributions through thank-you notes, shout-outs in newsletters, or small tokens of appreciation. Feeling valued motivates continued involvement.

3. Focusing Solely on Fundraising

While fundraising is essential, it’s equally important to build community. Balance fundraising events with social gatherings, workshops, or informational sessions that foster relationships among parents, teachers, and students.

4. Taking on Too Much

Avoid burnout by setting realistic goals and delegating tasks. Prioritise events that align with your PTA’s mission and have the most significant impact. Remember, quality over quantity.

5. Repeating the Same Events Annually

Tradition can be comforting, but it’s vital to introduce fresh ideas to keep the community engaged. Solicit feedback and brainstorm new events that reflect the evolving interests of your school community.

6. Neglecting Long-Term Planning

Develop a strategic plan outlining goals for the year, including event timelines, fundraising targets, and community engagement strategies. This foresight ensures a cohesive approach and better resource allocation.

7. Failing to Keep a Record

Maintain detailed records of meetings, financial transactions, and event outcomes. This documentation aids in transparency, facilitates smooth transitions between committee members, and helps in planning future activities.

8. Lax Financial Oversight

Implement checks and balances for all financial activities. Require dual signatories for expenditures, conduct regular audits, and present financial reports at meetings to maintain trust and accountability.

9. Excluding the Headteacher

Collaborate with the school’s leadership to align PTA activities with the school’s objectives. Regular communication ensures support and can provide valuable insights into the school’s needs.

By being mindful of these common mistakes and proactively addressing them, your PTA can create a more inclusive, effective, and enjoyable environment for all stakeholders.

For more insights and resources to support your PTA’s success, read our A-Z Fundraising Guide:

Able Canopies Ltd. design, manufacture and install canopies and shade structures
at schools, nurseries and educational settings to enable year-round
Free Flow Outdoor Play and Outdoor Learning.
For more information please contact us

Follow us on our social media accounts for the latest funding advice, new products & latest news:
Twitter | Facebook | Google + | Linked In

Back to Blog