Homework

HOMEWORK POLICY

At Ashlands Church of England Primary School, our vision is rooted in love of learning, love of life, and love of one another. Homework plays a part in this vision by connecting the joy of learning at school with the curiosity, care, and creativity children experience at home.

Homework refers to any work or activity that pupils are asked to do outside lesson time, either on their own or with parents/carers. It supports children in reaching the highest standards — spiritual, moral, social, cultural, and academic — by strengthening the vital partnership between home and school.

PURPOSES OF HOMEWORK

Homework is set with the following aims:

  • To nurture a love of learning by consolidating and extending knowledge and skills.
  • To strengthen the bond between school and home, encouraging parents/carers to take an active role in their child’s growth.
  • To inspire children to see learning as part of life, making use of home and community resources such as libraries, museums, parks, swimming pools, and family experiences.
  • To encourage independence, confidence, and self-discipline, especially as children prepare for secondary school.
  • To help children show love for one another through shared learning, collaboration, and supporting others in their journey.

AMOUNT OF HOMEWORK

The Government recommends that home learning at Key Stage One should take, on average, about 1 hour per week, with less expected in the Foundation Stage. At Key Stage Two, the amount increases gradually so that by Years 5 and 6 children spend about 30 minutes a day. These times include reading (or being read to), which we see as the foundation for a lifelong love of learning.

REGULAR HOME ACTIVITIES

Homework may include:

  • Reading for pleasure or from the school scheme
  • Comprehension activities
  • Grammar practice
  • Phonics and spelling practice
  • Number work (e.g. Doodle Maths, IXL)

 

Expectations:

  • Homework is set in books once a week (Friday) and returned by Wednesday.
  • Every child is expected to read at least three times a week at home.
  • In Key Stage Two, once per term, children may complete an extended home learning project linked to their topic work. This encourages creativity, collaboration, and the joy of exploring new ideas.

ADDITIONAL RECOGNITION

We celebrate optional work that reflects children’s curiosity, creativity, and care for others. This may include:

  • Independent research linked to class learning
  • Online activities that deepen coding or subject knowledge
  • Charitable deeds and acts of service (love of one another)
  • Additional maths or literacy practice
  • Participation in extra physical activities (love of life)

SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH HOMEWORK

Parents and carers play a vital role in helping children flourish through homework. This may include:

  • Choosing the right time and place for learning
  • Encouraging focus while keeping learning enjoyable
  • Listening, guiding, and celebrating effort without taking over

Above all, parents are encouraged to value homework as an opportunity to share in their child’s love of learning, and to balance academic work with family life, play, and rest.

EQUALITY AND INCLUSION

All children have equal access and inclusive rights to the curriculum regardless of gender, race, disability, or ability. Homework is designed to support every child’s needs so they can achieve their full potential in a safe and supportive environment.