We believe that homework forms an important part of student's learning, and that it has been a significant factor in the academic success the school has enjoyed in recent years. Subject teachers will set a variety of forms of homework, and students should record the tasks set in their planner (see page 38). A homework timetable is published at the start of the year, so that students know what homework to expect each day. For students in Years 7 to 9, homework will be set once or twice a week in most subjects. In Year 7, the demand will be for approximately half an hour per subject per week, rising to about one hour per subject per week by Year 9.

We hope that parents and carers will encourage their child with their homework, both by checking their planner regularly, and by discussing the work with them.

Parents' frequently asked questions

How often should my child be set homework for each subject?

Each subject area has outlined the frequency of homework for each year group. Details can be found in the homework timetables for 2016-17 by clicking on a link below:

How much homework should I expect my child to do each night?

In Year 7, approximately half an hour of homework per subject per week, rising to an hour per subject per week in Year 9. In Years 10 and 11, around two hours of homework per subject per week.

These are averages, and may vary over the year. For example, students in Years 10 & 11 can expect more homework when preparing for controlled assessments.

What about homework in the sixth form?

As a rule of thumb, students can expect an hour of homework/additional tasks for each lesson taught. This amounts to about five hours for each single A Level or Level 2 course per week. In addition, students are also expected to do background reading and be familiar with items in the news as is appropriate for their chosen subjects.

How do I know if my child has been set any homework?

From September 2015, parents/carers and students will be able to see homework tasks using the Go4schools online system.

What kind of homework should we expect?

Subject teachers set a variety of forms of homework, which may include research, collecting resources, investigating, reading as well as more formal written tasks. Some homeworks may be an extended tasks, which will take serveral days or even a number of weeks to complete, for example a long essay or piece of Art work.

Will homework require the use of a computer?

Some aspects of research or presentation may benefit from the use of a computer. There are facilities available in school to assist if needed.

Is there a homework club?

There is study support available in the school Resource Centre after school Monday - Thursday, 3.00pm - 4.30pm. Teaching assistants are on hand to assist and advise, and there are computers available for supervised use. In addition, the Resource Centre which opens at 8.00am each day, remains open until 5.30pm Monday - Thursday, 5.00pm Fridays. There is at least one librarian on hand to assist students at all times.

How is homework marked?

Homework will be checked for completion on the due date. Homework that requires marking will usually be returned to students within a week of being collected. It is the responsibility of the student to hand in work on the due date, including homework, unless he or she is absent (when it should be handed in as soon as possible upon the student’s return to school). If work is not handed in on time, it may not be marked.

What happens if my child isn't able to complete the homework set by the due date?

If students are unable to complete homework, or are falling behind with deadlines, they should speak to their subject teacher and form tutor as a matter of urgency. It is helpful if parents can supply a note to this effect. In such cases students will be helped to meet the deadline or to complete the work as soon as possible if agreed by their teacher.