The Next Generation of Parents and Students

By: Mark McCrindle

The educational landscape is shifting dramatically, driven by the entrance of a new generation of students and the next generation of parents.

With every generation comes a different set of expectations and characteristics, all of which they bring to their parenting and, for students, their learning. Parents today still want to be involved in their child’s schooling. We conducted a national survey of 1,500 parents, students and staff across government, Catholic and Independent schools. In this article, we explore the key traits and characteristics of the next generations of students and parents.

Introducing a New Era

As we move towards 2025, it’s crucial to understand the context in which our current and future students and parents operate. Presently, we have seven distinct living generations, each with its unique characteristics. Among these, Generation Y (Millennials) and Generation Z are particularly significant as they increasingly shape the landscape as both parents and educators.

Who Are Gen Y and Gen Z?

Gen Y Parents: Born between the early 1980s and mid-1990s, Gen Y parents are currently aged 31 to 45. They are pioneering their parenting in an age dominated by the internet and smartphone accessibility. This generation is highly educated, with many being the first in their families to earn a university degree. Their values in a schooling context lean towards flexibility, convenience, and approachable leadership, reflective of their work-life balance priorities.

Gen Z Parents: Often dubbed the “anxious generation,” Gen Z has been shaped by an era of diversity and digital connectivity, bringing a unique mindset to their parenting roles. They value empathy and clear communication from leaders, prioritising learning, development, and career progression in the workplace.

Generational Expectations and Education

Understanding these generations is critical for school leaders aiming to engage effectively with today’s parents. The burgeoning expectations for parental engagement in schools highlight a desire for practical involvement, yet many parents feel time constraints hinder their participation.

Parental Involvement Barriers

While a substantial portion of parents seek involvement in their child’s education, barriers remain within the control of schools. These include limited communication about participation opportunities and logistical challenges in accessing school events. Addressing these barriers can facilitate better engagement strategies.

Changing Relationships and Expectations

The relationship between parents and schools is shifting. More parents now see elements of their child’s upbringing as a shared responsibility with schools, including instilling values and developing social skills. This evolving sentiment suggests a trend towards collaborative partnerships aimed at holistic child development.

Effective Engagement

To truly engage with this new generation of parents and students, schools must foster authentic partnerships that embrace open communication and shared goals. By addressing barriers to parental involvement and aligning educational approaches with the values and expectations of Gen Y and Gen Z, schools can create thriving communities that support both academic and personal growth.

The Importance of Authentic Engagement

Authentic engagement with parents and students is pivotal in understanding and building school communities. By listening to and understanding the diverse needs of families, schools can position themselves as hubs of community, offering a sense of belonging and support in an increasingly complex world.

As school environments continue to evolve, leaders must stay attuned to generational shifts, fostering a culture of empathy, flexibility, and open dialogue. This approach not only enhances educational outcomes but also prepares the next generation for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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Article supplied with thanks to McCrindle.

About the Author: McCrindle are a team of researchers and communications specialists who discover insights, and tell the story of Australians – what we do, and who we are.

Feature image: Canva