Homework
Homework will be set on a regular basis according to a published timetable. All pupils are supplied with a ‘pupil planner’ as a means of recording any homework. This will also enable them to prepare and organise their work loads, especially in the upper school. Parents are asked to check and sign the student planner each week.
Homework provides opportunities for individual work, consolidating learning, practising skills learnt, reading with a purpose, writing and so on.
Homework promotes self-discipline. It can help pupils become more independent learners by developing their skills of preparation and research. It adds value by enabling pupils to enhance the quality of their work by taking more time over it and by widening their experience. It encourages proper preparation for tests and examinations.
Homework is an integral part of the programme through which the curriculum is delivered. Work done as homework will form part of the assessment of pupils’ work at every level in the school.
Homework is used to extend and enrich the curriculum, to develop personal discipline and provide opportunities for individual work.
The amount and nature of homework are determined for individual pupils in the context of their abilities and needs. Where appropriate, this will be reflected in an Individual Education Plan.
The same demands for quality, completeness and the meeting of deadlines are made for homework as for all other types of work undertaken.
The school makes appropriate resources available to pupils to encourage them to undertake homework assignments and pupils are encouraged to seek out other resources, such as the learning resource centre or public libraries.
Homework may be given in a variety of forms. It may be a short closed task, which takes one evening, or a longer assignment, which lasts for several weeks. If a longer task is set, it is important pupils pace themselves over the length of time given and do not expect to leave work until the last night.
Can parents help?
Yes! Of course they can. Not by doing the work but in other ways, such as:-
Ø clearly supporting the homework policy;
Ø helping their children to plan their time and activities to make room for homework;
Ø providing a quiet place for their child(ren) to work, with adequate work surfaces, lighting and heating;
Ø taking a positive interest in homework and praising achievement;
Ø raising concerns early with the form tutor or subject teacher about their child’s homework;
Ø checking planners each weekend to confirm that homework has been set and completed.
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