Homework is a vital part to our learning. It encourages independence, resilience and demonstrates a degree of personal fortitude. Homework should not be viewed as a ‘bolt-on’ that lacks relevance to the topic that is being studied within the subject. However, it should be seen as almost an extension of one’s lesson. It is important that pupils regularly complete homework in each subject to ensure that they are both stretched and supported within their learning. This will help to develop passionate and inquisitive young people who are maturing within themselves and their understanding of the subjects that they are studying.

KS3 homework

At KS3 each pupil will be given two pieces of homework to complete each week in the core subjects (English, Maths and Science). In Geography, History, and Languages, pupils will receive one piece of homework per week. In all other subjects (Technology, Drama, Art, Computer Studies, Music, RE and PE) will receive one piece of homework a fortnight.

• In practical subjects (Technology, PE, Drama, Art, Music), pupils may be required to complete a practical task as opposed to a traditional piece of written work. With that said, in non-practical subjects the tasks may vary and do not need to be a proscribed piece of written work.

• Each homework task should last around 30 minutes, depending on what has been assigned.

• Students may require the use of the internet and online platforms such as Bedrock and Hegarty for some tasks. However, if you have any questions regarding these platforms, please contact either Mr Ryan via email atlryan@johnmadejskiacadeemy.co.uk for Maths and Mr Feiteira via email at mfeiteira@johnmadejskiacademy.co.uk for English.

• The expectation is that all homework is to be handed in on the designated day provided by the classroom teacher. Any pupil who fails to hand in their homework on time will receive a C1. If incomplete homework becomes a persistent problem, the sanction will escalate.

• Students will be given a minimum of 48 hours to complete each homework assignment.

• In addition to the homework assigned in subjects, pupils should be reading at home regularly to support them in their reading and literacy. Therefore, each pupil should be reading for a minimum of thirty minutes each night either independently or to another member of the household. Good reading skills are intrinsically linked to success in one’s academics.

KS4 and KS5 homework

• At KS4 and KS5 students will be given a minimum of two pieces of homework to complete each week. This is up to the discretion of the classroom teacher, who will be following the guidelines that have been set out by the Head of Department.

• Homework tasks will vary between online platforms, such as GCSE Pod, Bedrock and Hegarty Maths, and exam-style questions. Each homework should take between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on what has been assigned.

• If incomplete homework becomes a persistent problem, the sanction will escalate.

• The days that homework is assigned are at the discretion of the Head of Department and the classroom teacher.

• Students will be given a minimum of 48 hours to complete each homework assignment.

If you have any questions or concerns about homework, please contact your child’s classroom teacher. Alternatively, if you require further clarification on homework, please do not hesitate to contact me via email at coakley@johnmadejskiacademy.co.uk