Purpose

When students are assigned homework, they have the opportunity to practice and apply the concepts and skills they have learnt in class. Homework also helps students to learn to manage their time effectively in order to complete the assignments on time. This helps to build discipline and responsibility, which are important life skills that will serve students well both in and out of the classroom, and prepare them for the requirements of key stage 4 courses.

However, Pembroke Academy recognises that family life and commitments beyond the school day are different for everyone.  Therefore, homework will only be set where there is a clear purpose:

• to enhance the core curriculum;
• to drive learning forward; or
• to help students commit learning to their long-term memory.

Method of setting homework

Students will be set weekly homework using online learning platforms for English (Bedrock), mathematics (Sparx) and science (Educake). Log in details will be issued to students in September.

Homework in other areas of the curriculum will be set at least once per module.  From Module 2, Homework will be set via the SIMs App. Students will continue to use a planner where they can record homework tasks in addition to the SIMs App.

Homework Feedback and Rewards

All independent learning completed will be recognised, with students receiving at least one Values praise point.  The number of praise points issued is at the discretion of the subject teacher, based on knowledge of the student and the task expectations. Some tasks will also contribute to the Reading Rewards and Pembroke Pledge.  Details of these rewards and recognition programmes can be found in the Student Planner.

Some tasks will use self-marking or instant feedback platforms, for example Seneca Learning, Bedrock or Sparx Maths.  Students will be able to see their score and any feedback instantly.  Your child's subject teacher will monitor homework completed through these platforms and award praise points.

For open-ended tasks, projects, practical tasks or worksheet based homework, students will receive whole class feedback, identifying strengths of the work submitted and any common areas for development. Students will be reward for all work submitted.

If a student does not complete homework tasks on more than one occasion, the class teacher will contact parents or carers to discuss barriers to completing and steps to ensure homework is attempted.

Accessibility

Students who do not have access to the necessary resources at home, are invited to join the weekly Homework Club (CL4) and the independent study sessions (library) which are available daily between 3.05 and 4pm.  Staff are on hand to provide additional support and guidance with all homework tasks.

If additional support is required, please contact your child's Form Tutor.