Spaghetti evening formation for college parents

Since opening in 2024, the college has employed various strategies to engage parents and caregivers in the ongoing formation of their children. The college trialled a series of workshop-style sessions throughout 2024, led by Fr Michael Smith SJ. These evenings focused on themes such as Ignatian formation, parenting with faith and the art of active listening.

Held twice a term, the sessions initially drew around 40 parents and caregivers. But attendance dropped during the winter months.

The college remained committed to refining its approach to parent formation. In response, a small committee, made up of school leaders, Fr Smith and a parent, was formed to explore new ways of connecting with families. From these discussions emerged the concept of a “Spaghetti Evening”.

The initiative is inspired by a model used in schools in the United States. Events are created to bring families together for a meal and to discuss involvement in their children’s education. The concept centres on creating a relaxed, family-friendly event where students are presented with opportunities to demonstrate leadership and social skills in a supportive environment.

These skills included serving others, engaging in positive conversations with adults and leading structured reflections with a focus on spiritual conversations and the Daily Examen following an after-dinner address by Fr Smith.

To ensure accessibility, the college invited families to contribute a koha, which helped cover the cost of the evening without creating financial barriers. The first event, held for year 10 students and their families, was a resounding success, drawing more than 120 attendees. Financial contributions from families also helped covered the cost of the event.

Families were seated together at designated tables, where they were served food, engaged in the Examen prayer and guided spiritual conversations, all led by the students themselves. Parents reacted positively to the experience.

The college has learned that careful consideration of how the formation experience is packaged for parents can pay real dividends.  The college plans to run one of the events per term for the remaining year groups until the end of 2026.

FULL STORY

NZCEO eNewsletter (By Matt Grevatt/St Ignatius of Loyola Catholic College – Kōtui: School and Policy Updates)