Homework Policy
Why do we set homework?
Current research from the EEF (Education Endowment Foundation) suggests:
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Homework has a positive impact (on average +5 months).
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Homework that is linked to classroom work tends to be more effective.
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It is important to make the purpose of homework clear to pupils.
Homework starts in EYFS (both Nursery and Reception), and parents are encouraged to read with their child throughout the week.
In Nursery, we have a book loan scheme, where the children can choose a book with their adult and take the book home for the week to enjoy. In Reception, the children will be provided with books that are suitable for them to read, some starting with no words to encourage story telling language and others with a few simple to read words.
A will weekly homework task, with a focus on English and maths will also be proivded, consolidate learning that has taken place and meeting the individual needs of the children. As the children develop their phonics knowledge within school, they will be provided with a list of phonic sounds and tricky words. Regularly practising reading them, looking out for the words in reading books and playing games with them, will benefit and support the children in their development.
Moving into Key stage 1 we focus on phonics and reading practice. This continues to be essential all the way through the child’s primary education. A child when ready, is expected to learn weekly spellings and this then extends to writing tasks. In addition to regular weekly activities, children may be given additional tasks that are differentiated according to age and ability. These may include research work, reading in preparation for lessons, preparation for an oral presentation and traditional written assignments. Occasionally children may be asked to finish work at home, but this will not form the core part of the homework.
Teachers will establish a regular pattern for homework that parents will be informed about via class Dojo messages and the school website at the beginning of each academic year. Time Allocations for Homework at Oakfield Primary School follow national guidelines.