Education is a partnership between the school, the student, and the parents. While teachers guide students within the classroom, and parents nurture them at home, true progress is achieved when both sides collaborate closely. This is why Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College prioritize Open Day and Parent-Teacher Conferences as integral parts of their academic culture. These events provide parents with a window into their child’s academic journey, while also strengthening the bond between home and school.

Why Open Day Matters

Open Day is more than just a routine event; it is a moment of transparency and connection. At Verbum Dei, it serves several purposes:

• Feedback Exchange – Teachers provide honest feedback about student performance, while parents share insights about the child’s habits at home.
• Progress Tracking – Parents see firsthand how their child is developing academically, socially, and emotionally.
• Relationship Building – Strong partnerships between parents and teachers are fostered.
• Accountability – Students realize that their work is being observed and evaluated by both their teachers and parents.

This shared responsibility ensures that no child is left behind.

How Verbum Dei Organizes Open Day

At Verbum Dei Academy (Nursery & Primary) and Verbum Dei International College (Secondary), Open Days are carefully planned. Notices are sent out weeks in advance so parents can adjust their schedules. On the set day, classrooms are arranged for one-on-one discussions between teachers and parents, ensuring privacy and respect.

Parents often get to:

• Review their child’s notebooks, assignments, and projects.
• See assessment reports and termly results.
• Interact with subject teachers, class teachers, and school administrators.
• Raise questions about curriculum, discipline, or overall child development.

The atmosphere is one of openness and collaboration, not criticism.

Verbum Dei Academy: Fostering Early Growth

At the Academy level, Open Days are designed to help parents understand the foundations of their child’s learning. Discussions often revolve around:

• Literacy and Numeracy Skills – How well the child is grasping reading, writing, and basic arithmetic.
• Social Interaction – How the child relates with peers and teachers.
• Behavioral Habits – Areas like attentiveness, discipline, and participation in class.
• Creative Development – Insights into artistic, musical, or physical activities the child enjoys.

Parents are also guided on how they can support early learning at home, such as reading with their children, encouraging curiosity, and creating study routines.

Verbum Dei International College: Academic and Career Growth

At the College level, conferences take on a deeper academic and career-oriented tone. Here, discussions include:

• Subject Performance – Identifying strengths and weaknesses across various subjects.
• Examination Preparation – Strategies for upcoming WAEC, NECO, or international exams.
• Career Guidance – Recommendations based on student interests and talents.
• Discipline and Leadership – Assessing maturity, responsibility, and leadership potential.

Students are sometimes invited to be part of the discussion, giving them a voice in their own progress and instilling accountability.

A Collaborative Approach

Open Days at Verbum Dei emphasize partnership. Teachers do not simply lecture parents; instead, they engage in dialogue. Parents are encouraged to share observations such as:

• “My child seems to struggle with concentration when studying at home.”
• “He has developed a great interest in drawing; how can this be nurtured in school?”

This two-way communication helps teachers tailor their approach, ensuring the child’s needs are fully addressed.

Student Involvement and Responsibility

Though the main discussions are between parents and teachers, the impact on students is profound. Many students prepare more diligently for their work, knowing it will be reviewed on Open Day. For older students in the College, teachers sometimes invite them to present their own reflections, teaching them self-assessment and accountability.

Challenges and Solutions

Like any school event, Open Days come with challenges. Some parents may not have the time to attend due to work obligations. Others may be defensive when hearing about their child’s struggles. At Verbum Dei, the school works around this by:

• Offering flexible scheduling for meetings.
• Keeping communication respectful and solution-oriented.
• Following up with parents who cannot attend via phone calls or written reports.

This ensures that every student benefits, regardless of circumstances.

Voices from Open Day

• “When I saw my daughter’s artwork displayed, I realized she has a gift. I am grateful to her teachers for noticing it.” – Parent, Verbum Dei Academy
• “The teachers gave me practical tips to help my son study for WAEC. I now feel more involved in his academic journey.” – Parent, Verbum Dei International College
• “Open Day makes us feel like we are not alone; we are partners in shaping these children’s futures.” – Teacher

The Bigger Picture

Ultimately, Open Day and Parent-Teacher Conferences are about building a united front for student success. When parents and teachers share information and align their efforts, children thrive. This is why Verbum Dei continues to make these events a priority every term.

By opening its doors to parents and fostering honest dialogue, Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College demonstrate their commitment to holistic education—where every child is supported not just by teachers, but by an entire community dedicated to their growth.