Homework is set in order to consolidate understanding of topics that have been covered in class. Ideally, a task set for homework will:

  • arise out of the context of current teaching
  • will reinforce concepts covered in class
  • stimulate interest
  • be carefully differentiated so that it is within the scope of each pupil working independently

Each pupil will be issued with a homework diary in which they should record the homework set for each lesson. They will also be issued with a homework timetable which enables parents to check the homework that should be received each evening of the week.

Some practical points for parents

Insist on seeing the homework timetable, make a copy and mount it on card. Involved and informed parents who engage their child in an introductory discussion to launch him/her on the work are applauded as members of the team.

Whilst accepting that keen pupils may wish to give extra time so as to achieve completion, do not encourage them to continue when over-tired. Do not hesitate to sign unfinished work indicating the time spent.

If homework in general, or in a particular subject, becomes a source of ongoing anxiety, write to the Headmaster who will investigate and advise.

A rigid domestic timetable may prevent a child from viewing the one really suitable programme of the evening. Parents are advised to make their organisation as flexible as circumstances permit eg. video the favourite programme and make it available when homework is finished.

Pupils are expected to complete all homework and coursework that is set to the best of their ability. This means that due care must be paid to the presentation as well as content, of work.

In years 10 and 11, homework often comprises of GCSE coursework tasks. In some subjects, this can be worth up to 60% of the total marks. It is vital that pupils recognise the importance of such work and complete it to the best possible standard.

Coursework must be handed in before the agreed deadlines. Please note that late coursework will not be marked, new deadlines will not be set. It is the responsibility of each pupil to ensure that work is handed in on time. The vast majority of pupils appreciate the importance of deadlines, but for some, it is a lesson in self-discipline and personal organisation that has to be learnt the hard way. Missed opportunities in coursework, will have an adverse effect on the final GCSE grade awarded.

Homework Disciplinary Procedure - Guidelines

Subject teachers will issue a 'slip' for homework that is:

a) not done
b) not handed in on time
c) of an unsatisfactory standard
d) where collusion is suspected

Homework slips will be passed to the Year Head.

Cause for Concern

When a pupil:

a) Collects a number of slips in a relatively short period of time or,
b) there appears to be a developing trend that needs to be 'nipped in the bud'.

The Year Head will:

a) Speak to the pupil and inform them that a Cause for Concern letter is being sent home.
b) Enter brief details ie., dates, subject, topic and irregularities onto the letter.
c) Send a copy of the Cause for Concern letter to the office for the pupil's file.

On receipt of such a letter, parents may wish to contact the school and speak to either the Year Head or Deputy Head. Any contact must be by prior arrangement.

Pupils must return the Parent Reply Slip, signed by parents, as soon as possible. This will be entered into the pupil's file.

Homework Report

If problems regarding homework/coursework persist, then the Year Head should send the pupil for an interview with the Headmaster or Deputy Head.

Following interview, the pupil will be placed on Homework Report. The duration of the report will vary according to the severity of the problem, history of such problems and/or lack of co-operation in the past.

The Headmaster/Deputy Head will send a Homework Report letter home to the parents. A copy of the pupil's homework timetable will also be sent home in order to allow parents to cross-check entries. In some cases we may require parents to come into school to discuss the matter, others may wish to do so voluntarily.

A copy of the Interview Sheet, Homework Report letter and signed Reply Slip will be placed in the pupil's file.

The pupil will be required to present their Homework Report Sheet for signing at each lesson. Details of homework should be entered into the appropriate box on the report by the subject teacher.

Pupils are required to have the Report signed each evening by their parent/guardian.

At the start of each week, the Year Head will collect the completed report and issue a new report for the week ahead.

The Headmaster, Deputy and Year Head will keep a record of all pupils who are on Homework Report.

Year Heads are responsible for terminating the Report when the agreed time has been served.

Homework Detention

  • A supervised homework detention class will run each afternoon from 12.50pm to 1.15pm in Room F4.
  • All pupils in detention will be informed by their Form Tutor at morning registration that day. Their names will be added to the detention list for that day.
  • Pupils will be escorted to the detention room by their class teacher at the end of Period 5.
  • Pupils will serve such a detention for each homework irregularity or for pastoral reasons.
  • Detention will take priority over all lunchtime clubs.
  • During detention, pupils must be punctual and bring the necessary work with them.
  • Parents will be informed and kept regularly updated if their child’s detention record gives cause for concern.

Headmaster’s Detention

If a pupil receives eight or more detentions in a single term, they will be required to attend a special Headmaster’s Detention, held on the final day of each term. This will run from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

Furthermore, 100 merits will be deducted from the pupil’s House total.