We recognise the importance of homework for children in both our Key Stages. We acknowledge the contribution of homework activities in
* extending school learning;
* consolidating and reinforcing skills and understanding, particularly in
literacy and numeracy;
* exploiting and utilising resources of all kinds at home for learning.
In Key Stage 1 short activities of different kinds - simple games, learning spellings, number facts and of course reading together - provide a very important opportunity for young children to talk about what they are learning at school with an interested adult and to practise key skills in a supportive home environment. A Homework Reading Record Diary is provided for each child and parents are asked to ensure it is completed regularly.
In Key Stage 2, we recognise the need for consolidation of studies as children work towards the SATs assessments at the end of the Key Stage. To this end, the quantity of homework tasks will increase throughout Key Stage 2. These activities enhance work completed in class which encompasses a range of curriculum areas.
Some children may also generate their own homework tasks which arise from their own interests and involvement in a class topic. Whilst this type of activity is encouraged, it should not however be seen as compulsory. As a staff we are aware of the need for children of primary age to be involved after school in other activities and social occasions.
At the beginning of each academic year staff within each year group inform parents by letter of the particular expectations regarding any work to be completed at home. As with all homework tasks, we value the input that parents and carers provide and feel that this contributes to and strengthens the partnership between home and school, thus benefitting the children in our care.
It is recognised that some parents choose to take their children out of school during term time for family holidays. The school does not provide homework to cover holiday absence.
We hope that this clarifies the system of homework tasks at Norbury Hall. We would not expect children to become over-tired or anxious about home activities. However, if parents have particular concerns they are encouraged to discuss these with their child's teacher. We would wish these tasks to be a positive and worthwhile experience further supporting our home-school partnership.
Book bags bearing the school logo can be purchased from the School Office. These are particularly useful for carrying reading books, homework items and other letters/communications to and from school. | 