Sacred Heart School believes that learning outside the classroom is an integral part of a child’s education and a vital aspect of learning. The curriculum requires a wide variety of learning methods; research, reading, practical tasks, assessment and projects. These all contribute to effective teaching and sound learning. Work completed outside of the classroom provides opportunities to:
- reinforce the learning that has taken place in lessons
- research topics independently
- complete creative projects
- complete tasks which will develop a student’s capacity as a learner
- consolidate learning
- practise examination skills
- develop good time management techniques
NPCAT Homework Policy
At Sacred Heart School we follow the homework policy as set out in the NPCAT Teaching and Learning Policy.
Pupils are given time in the lessons to record the homework that has been set and the date when it is required in their planner. Homework tasks may include, but are not limited to:
- Reading and researching further around a topic
- Learning spelling of key words
- Learning key words and definitions / subject vocabulary
- Google form quiz
- Online platform: Tassomi / GCSEPod / Dr. Frost
- Preparing revision cards / revision for AP1, 2 and 3
Homework at Key Stage 3
- Core subjects (English, Maths, RE and Science) will set between 30 minutes-60 minutes worth of homework per fortnight.
- Non core subjects (Geography, History, Computer Science and MFL) will set 30 minutes worth of homework per fortnight.
- Some practical subjects (Drama, PE, Music, Technology and Art) where there is less curriculum time at KS3 may issue a more extended piece of homework to be completed over the half term.
Homework at Key Stage 4
Core subjects (English, Maths, RE and Science) and options subjects will set between 1-2 hours worth of homework a fortnight. This will include but is not limited to:
- Multiple choice GCSE questions
- Google form knowledge quiz
- Completion of revision cards / clocks
- Questions to answer around subject knowledge organisers/revision guides
- Reading in advance before a lesson
- Planning out the answer to a GCSE exam question
- Completing exam style questions.
Supporting pupils with Homework
In School
In the first instance pupils are encouraged to seek the support of their class teacher if they are struggling with the homework that has been set.
We offer a homework club every Thursday after school 2.35-3.35pm in IT1 where any student is invited to complete homework in a quiet, calm environment with staff on hand to help with any homework queries. Any students who are unable to access the internet at home are able to use the computers in IT1 during homework club.
Role of home support
The cooperation of parents and carers is sought in ensuring that homework is completed adequately and on time by:
- helping their child to create a routine for completing homework which takes into consideration after school activities and weekend plans
- creating a learning environment at home which is conducive to good learning e.g. a quiet space with a table to work at
- discussing tasks and success criteria
- encouraging their child to check the work before submission
- checking their child’s planner, making any comments about difficulties that may have arisen in trying to complete the homework, and signing the planner on a weekly basis
- contacting the child’s form tutor or class teacher if there are any homework related concerns
- giving praise when homework tasks are completed and deadlines are met
Failure to Complete Homework
Pupils who fail to complete homework to a satisfactory standard or who do not hand in homework by the date required, will be issued a consequence.
