By Eve Bell

My first parents evening was spent on a tiny chair, looking through a tray of scribbles.

I spent my last one sat at home looking at a screen on Zoom. Reflecting on how much the role of ‘school mum’ has shaped my life. I was crying before it even started.

I’m awe of teachers but I’m not a fan of the education system. I would’ve loved to homeschool, but it wouldn’t have suited both of my children. So school it was. I still believe children and adults learn better through play.

As the wonderful Michael Rosen says:

I have never cared so much for tests or exam results. They don’t tell me who my children are or who they are yet to be. But parents evening is different. It’s a window into a world I don’t get to see. Where I get a glimpse into who they are becoming. Where I get to see to see the real answer to ‘how was your day?’

The teachers didn’t just talk about her grades or recent mock results. They talked about her quiet nature and what they loved most – her smile. The smile they look forward to on hard days. (And to be clear – I’ve never taught Louisa to be good and just smile along. She’s not for doing anything she doesn’t want to. Never has been. Never will be.)

What the teachers told me reminded me that the most important lessons aren’t always learned in the classroom.

Division is being sown even more than ever in this news week. So I’ve had a quote from Mother Teresa has been running through my head like a mantra instead.

“If you want world peace, go home and love your family”

And hearing these things from teachers felt like it was coming to life. My daughter walks into the world knowing she is loved – and she gives out that love and kindness freely. One small smile at a time. Giving those teachers some tiny moments that change their day.

It’s not always the big achievements that change the world. It’s the sharing a little bit of your sunshine when you can. Sharing your compassion, A smile or a kind word. It’s those moments of connection. And those start at home.

As I closed the laptop as parents evening ended, I felt a rush of emotion. My life as a school mum might be ending. But I can still try to bring about world peace.

The Mother Teresa way.