Homework Information for Parents

Our Approach to Homework

Homework plays a vital role in supporting your child’s academic progress and personal development. It helps deepen understanding, encourages independent learning, and builds valuable study habits. We recognise that students have busy lives outside school, so our homework policy is designed to promote a healthy balance between schoolwork and extracurricular activities.

How Parents Can Support

• Monitor Assignments: Homework is set as assignments via the Arbor app. Please check regularly to stay informed.
   
• Review Work: Before submission, discuss the assignment with your child:
  • Does the work meet the requirements?
  • Is there room for improvement?
  • Has your child spent the recommended amount of time?
  • Can they explain what they have learned?
  • Are they proud of their effort?

Key Principles

• Homework is assigned regularly with minimum time allocations (see below).
• Students are given at least four school days, ideally a full week, to complete homework (e.g., if set on Monday, due Friday at the earliest).
• Tasks must be meaningful and designed to advance learning.
• Homework may include preparation, retrieval, extension, Dedicated Improvement and Reflection Time (DIRT), or new learning.
• Assignments may be individual or project-based (e.g., a 90-minute project over a 6-week half term for KS3).
• All homework is set on Arbor.
• Failure to submit homework will result in a 15-minute after-school detention. Parents will be notified by email, and students must still complete the assignment.

Frequency and Duration

Years 10 and 11

• Core Subjects: Weekly, 30–60 minutes per assignment, plus personal study (e.g., exam preparation).
• Other Subjects: Fortnightly, 30–60 minutes per assignment, plus personal study. 

Years 7 to 9

• Core Subjects: Weekly, 30 minutes per assignment.
• Other Subjects: Up to 30 minutes per fortnight, depending on teaching frequency (e.g., Drama, Art, and Music are assigned less often).

Digital Platforms

Homework may be set using various digital platforms, alongside written activities. Your child’s class teacher will provide login details where required. ·

• Sparx Maths
• Sparx Reader
• Sparx Science
• Seneca (Science, History, Geography, RE)
• Educake (English, Science)
• Pixlr (Art)
• GCSE Pod (GCSE Revision)

Accessing Assignments

All homework assignments are managed via Arbor. For guidance on viewing your child’s assignments, please visit the Arbor Help Centre.

If you have any questions or need further support, please contact your child’s class teacher or the school office