Home Learning Policy

Home learning may build on work done in the classroom, thus enabling the class teacher and the parent to confirm that the child has an understanding of a subject. It helps to develop a sense of discipline about learning at home. Homework may sometimes be set to provide a starting point for learning in the classroom.
Most homework will focus on the core subjects – English, Mathematics and Science. Occasionally other subjects will be set such as a creative topic which will extend over a term.

Purpose

• To develop an effective partnership between the school and parents/carers in pursuing the aims of the school (Code of Conduct and Home / School Agreement)
• To consolidate and reinforce skills and understanding, particularly in numeracy, literacy and other curriculum areas and help to raise levels of achievement
• To extend school learning, for example, through additional reading
• To encourage pupils as they get older to develop the confidence and self discipline needed to study on their own, through independent research
• To promote lifelong learning that incorporates modern technology

 

Approach

Home learning may build on work done in the classroom, thus enabling the class teacher and the parent to confirm that the child has an understanding of a subject. It helps to develop a sense of discipline about learning at home. Homework may sometimes be set to provide a starting point for learning in the classroom.

Most homework will focus on the core subjects – English, Mathematics and Science. Occasionally other subjects will be set such as a creative topic which will extend over a term.

We have decided to give each teacher flexibility over the day for setting homework, its marking and the time given to complete it in, however, homework will generally be provided on a weekly basis. Children will be given clear instructions in class about the activity to be undertaken and a cover note may be attached to the homework with information for parents.

Daily reading at home is expected for pupils in all classes.

Should home learning become an issue at home, we request that parents note this on their child’s work so that the class teacher is aware. We have decided to take this approach so that home learning can fit around family lifestyles and commitments. Reading, learning multiplication tables and learning spellings, are proven to be better retained in the child’s memory when completed in shorter daily sessions.

Parents will receive a written synopsis of the curriculum to be covered. This is an important part of the communication process, giving parents the opportunity to ask questions about any aspect of class activity.

At the Parents’ Evenings teachers will have the opportunity to offer advice on how parents can help their child.

Role of the Parent

The parent is asked to support and encourage the child by giving time and a home environment in which home learning can be done. The class teacher will, as far as possible, ensure that the child is completely clear on what they are expected to do at home. The intention is to encourage the children to develop a sense of responsibility.

Children benefit enormously from being able to discuss what they have done with their parents. This is not to suggest that the parent should spend time altering or correcting the child’s work but rather discuss it and suggest how it might be done differently or improved. Constructive comments enable the child to develop a better understanding of the work and reinforce what is taught in school.

Reading is a crucial aspect of school work and needs to be encouraged at all times. A child who reads widely and with enthusiasm is often able to translate this into written work. It is most important for a parent to try to hear their child read as often as possible, particularly at Key Stage 1 to discuss the plot and characters and to ask the child questions about what has been read. Younger children need to be heard on a regular, daily basis, whilst older children may be expected to read independently and silently.

Parent workshops are also held throughout the year.

It is hoped that parents will support the school in encouraging their children to develop a responsible attitude to their home learning.