Rationale

The value of homework activities is far more important than the precise amount of time devoted to them. However, good practice would suggest that, on average pupils should spend the following amounts of time on homework or GCSE coursework.

Years 7 - 30-60 minutes per evening

Year 8 & 9 - 30-90 minutes per evening

Year 10 & 11 - 60-120 minutes per evening

• Teachers provide regular and meaningful homework for all pupils whilst recognising that pupils are individuals with different needs and abilities.
• As the pupils approach external examinations, the amount of homework will increase accordingly.

Why homework is set

• Homework is set for a variety of reasons and should encourage self discipline, review and revision: practice - learning by doing, completing coursework assignment, research, independent learning, consolidation, work not suited to classroom situation.

• Some subjects have a coursework component as part of the external examination. This will often form part of the homework for pupils in the upper school.

Recording and Monitoring

• Wherever possible teachers will attempt to co-ordinate coursework to avoid deadline clashes. A coursework calendar is devised each year to help co-ordinate their work.
• A homework timetable for KS3 pupils is devised and issued to pupils at the start of the academic year.
• Homework is recorded by the pupils in a “study planner”. The recording of homework is checked by staff, parents and pupils.
• Completion of homework is monitored regularly by subject teachers, Heads of Department and tutors. Homework defaulters are referred to Heads of Department, Heads of Year and Parents/Carers.
• Twice during the academic year, the amount of homework recorded is monitored by the curriculum manager. This is published in the Bulletin.
• Complaints regarding homework are addressed by applying school complaints procedures.

Role of Parents and Carers in Supporting Pupils

Parents or Carers should:

• Make it clear that they value homework and support the school in explaining how it can help pupils make progress.
• Expect deadlines to be met and check that they are.
• Encourage pupils and praise them when they have completed homework.
• Provide a suitable place where pupils can do their homework or help pupils attend a suitable place.
• Expect complaints concerning homework to be addressed.