Homework

Rationale

The setting of homework provides pupils with the opportunity to consolidate and extend the learning that takes place at school. It involves parents/carers in their child’s learning and strengthens the home/school partnership. Homework also provides opportunities for independence and encourages pupils to develop the habit of studying.

Alongside this, homework tasks help to develop personal learning and thinking skills such as independent enquiry, self-management and creative thinking. It helps pupils to develop perseverance and self-discipline and this in turn aids the development of confidence to deal with frustrations, overcome difficulties and solve problems.

The nature of homework tasks

• Tasks should be used to consolidate and homework and should not usually be ‘finishing off’ classwork.
• Homework should involve a variety of tasks, techniques and processes.
• Where possible and appropriate, pupils should be involved in the decision making process regarding extended learning tasks.
• Tasks that require the use of ICT should be set with time built in for pupils to access school ICT resources.

The timetabling of homework

• Homework should be set when it is most appropriate to fit in with a lesson or sequence of lessons. This does not have to be weekly, but should not be more than once per week per subject.
• Homework should not be set and expected in on the following day, except in extraordinary circumstances.
• Some homework may be of an optional ‘extension’ nature, but in these circumstances should not hinder the general classroom progress of those pupils who choose not to complete it.
• Homework that is expected to be completed over a number of weeks should be given out in chunks. For example, a six week project should be broken down into more manageable weekly tasks to help pupils with time management and organisational skills. This said, an overall vision of the project should still be shared with pupils at the outset.

Homework support / help

• Extra-curricular clubs and support groups, both formal and informal, should ideally be available wherein staff and other pupils (prefects and subject ambassadors) are available to help with homework.
• Printed sheets detailing extended learning should be considered where appropriate, particularly where literacy, use of keywords etc. is a major part of the task. Sheets like this are particularly useful if pupils have missed all, or part of, lessons due to other school activities or absence.
• Form tutors should encourage pupils in form time to check on their pupil planner and to reinforce organisational skills linked to homework.

Homework

Pupils may receive work to complete at home from their class teacher. All homework will be put onto Show my homework for pupils and parents/carers to view.

Pupils and parents/carers will be sent reminders to ensure pupils are completing the work on time.

How can Parents help?

• Homework is important in raising achievement, encouraging independent study and consolidating learning.
• We expect pupils to try their best and we value your support.
• Check show my homework regularly and take an interest in what they are doing.
• Make sure your child has a quiet and calm environment in which to complete their homework.
• Please ensure your child has all the equipment and materials they will need, such as pencil crayons, ruler, calculator, glue.