Homework

The aim of homework is to encourage the continuation of learning at home as an essential part of a student’s education. The Education Endowment Foundation found that homework linked to classroom work tends to be more effective. Homework not only reinforces classroom learning, it also helps students develop the skills, attitudes and understanding needed to realise their full potential and develop independent learning skills for the future, including the habits of enquiry and investigation.

Homework enables pupils to:

• Consolidate and reinforce the knowledge, understanding and skills developed at school (apply, research and consolidate).
• Prepare for new learning activities, for example through additional reading.
• Develop their ability to retrieve and recall information previously learnt.
• Access resources not available in school.
• Develop the skills, confidence and motivation needed to study independently.
• Show progress and understanding.
• Enhance their study skills, e.g., planning, time management, self-discipline, etc.
• Manage particular demands, such as end-of-year assessments and GCSEs.

Homework may take several forms and may involve the application of a range of different skills sets, all of which are designed to diversify our students’ learning experiences outside of the classroom. However, please be aware that staff do not wish to set homework purely for the sake of setting it and, whilst homework will be set regularly across the curriculum, there may be times when homework is not set in certain subjects as it may not be appropriate at that time.  On an evening where homework has not been set we would expect key stage 3 pupils to read for thirty minutes as an alternative or to visit the Dr Frost Learning website to practice their skills in mathematics.  Each pupil will be given log on details by their maths teacher details of how to login can be found here: How to use Dr Frost.  Pupils in key stage 4 should undertake their own independent study and revision.  All pupils should utilise their understanding of the Core 4 study skills which will assist to work independently.

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are now widespread and easy to access. Staff, pupils, and parents/carers may be familiar with generative chatbots such as Co-pilot, ChatGPT, and Google Bard. Goldington Academy recognises that AI can support learning but may also lend itself to cheating and plagiarism.

Pupils may use AI tools:

• As a research tool to help find out about new topics and ideas.
• When specifically studying and discussing AI in schoolwork, e.g., IT lessons or art homework about AI-generated images. All AI-generated content must be properly attributed.

Pupils may not use AI tools:

• During assessments, including internal and external assessments and coursework.

Expectations per Key Stage

Below is a guide to how much homework pupils should expect per night:

The table above  relates to Monday to Thursday inclusive and it is the expectation that students will do one session at the weekend at some point (Saturday/Sunday).

Students in Key Stage 4 are encouraged to spread their study time across multiple sessions over the weekend to ensure each session remains manageable and supports effective learning.

The school uses Bromcom to set, assess, and monitor homework. Staff and students have unique logins using their school email and password. Each child will be able to access every homework task via the internet. Parents are also able to access their own account, linked to their child or children at the Academy, in order to monitor their child’s homework. Computers are available via our ICT suite and Library for any children without easy access to computers at home.

For any questions about homework, please contact Mr Chisnall, Miss Thomas, or Mrs Chapman.

Should your child wish to complete their homework in school, then the school library is open daily and provides a quiet working space with access to computers, where all students can go to complete homework and develop effective learning habits. If any child requires individual support with homework then they should communicate with the teacher who set the homework to gain further support.

Pupils are supplied with a planner to assist them with their homework.  Parents are asked to take an interest in homework; to provide, if possible, quiet conditions in which their child can study; and to advise the school of any problems. 

And don’t forget, if you’d rather NOT do homework at home, please use the Library. After all, why do homework at home when you can do it at school instead?

Homework Policy