Our Vision
At Whitstone School, homework is designed to support academic growth, independent learning and personal development. It is purposeful, relevant to classroom learning and manageable for staff to set and provide feedback. Homework helps students consolidate knowledge, develop study skills and prepares them for future learning.
Our Aims:
- Encourage effective study habits, time management and self-discipline
- Consolidate and extend classroom learning
- Enhance independent learning opportunities
- Involve parents and carers in supporting student progress
For full details, please see the Homework Policy
Key Stage Three (Years 7 to 9)
Homework expectations:
- Up to one hour per day
- Core subjects (Maths, English, Science, Languages) have weekly homework
- Geography and History rotate weekly
- Optional tasks can be set in subjects such as Design Technology, Computing, Art, Music, Drama, Dance and PE
- All tasks are set via EPraise with at least 24 hours notice
- While there is no fixed schedule for when teachers assign homework, a clear timetable is in place to indicate when students should complete their tasks. This helps students manage their time effectively, establish a consistent routine for homework, and ensures that staff provide at least 24 hours notice before any task is due.
Subject Highlights:
- English: Sparx Reader for weekly reading and comprehension
- Maths: Sparx Maths online tasks plus occasional worksheets
- Science: Sparx Science online tasks.
- Geography and History: Research, worksheets, vocabulary and written tasks
- Languages: Vocabulary practice and Duolingo exercises
Key Stage Four (Years 10 to 11)
Homework expectations:
- Up to one and a half hours per task
- Weekly homework set via EPraise
- Tasks may include exam style questions, revision, coursework and consolidation of class learning
- Tasks are flexible to meet student needs and all homework has at least 24 hours notice
- While there is no fixed schedule for when teachers assign homework, a clear timetable is in place to indicate when students should complete their tasks. This helps students manage their time effectively, establish a consistent routine for homework, and ensures that staff provide at least 24 hours notice before any task is due.
Support for Homework
We recognise that some students may need additional support to complete homework. To help with this, the school library is open every break and lunchtime for quiet study. In addition, Homework Club runs in M1 every Monday and Wednesday, providing a supportive environment for students to complete their work with help available if needed.
Working Together: How Parents Can Help
We greatly value your support in helping your child establish good homework routines. Encouraging your child to complete tasks on time can make a real difference to their progress.
If your child is experiencing barriers that prevent them from completing homework, please contact their tutor so we can work together to find solutions.
Tips for supporting your child at home:
- Create a quiet, well-lit space for homework
- Encourage regular breaks and a consistent routine
- Discuss what they are learning and ask questions about their tasks
- Help them plan and manage their time effectively (use the timetable to help with this)
- Praise effort and celebrate achievements