Homework not only consolidates and reinforces learning in the classroom but helps students to develop the skills and attitudes that they will need to become successful, independent lifelong learners, for example; information retrieval, planning, analysis and time management.

With these skills they will be able to contribute effectively, and respond with flexibility to a rapidly changing world. It provides an opportunity for extending school learning, involving parents in the management of students’ learning and keeping them informed of the work that students are doing. Student diaries/message books are used as a method of informal communication between parent and teacher.

Homework is defined as any learning activity that students are asked to do outside normal lesson time. Well planned homework makes an important contribution to students’ progress at school and helps them to achieve high standards. The homework task is generally related to work that students are doing in school, often as preparation, consolidation or follow-up. Homework can be done by students working on their own, at home with the support of parents or carers, at lunchtime using school resources, or before and after school with the support of teachers or other students. Homework makes the greatest contribution to learning when:

• there is a regular homework timetable that is adhered to
• there are clear expectations of students
• parents are involved in their child’s learning
• there are high expectations of students in completing, presenting and submitting homework tasks on time

Homework information