Homework

Independent Learning is defined as ‘any work or activities which students are asked to do outside lesson time’. At King James’s we value independent learning and believe that independent learning activities should be an extension of lessons so that students continue to learn beyond the classroom.

 The purpose of any independent learning may include:

• to enable students to develop the skills needed for independent study
• to enable students to meet the demands of examined courses including coursework where relevant
• to review, practise, broaden and consolidate learning which has taken place within the classroom, including in preparation for assessment
• to sustain the involvement of parents and carers in students’ learning and create opportunities for them to be involved in their children’s learning

When students are set homework, they record it in their planner with a clear deadline for completion. Parents are asked to sign the planner once a week, giving them an opportunity to check what homework has been set and whether it has been completed. We encourage parents to use the planner to communicate with subject teachers and tutors about homework.

Independent learning tasks are set by departments and by subject teachers. At Key Stage 3 homework tasks are identified as bronze, silver and gold tasks, dependent on the length of time it takes to complete them. Tasks set at Key Stage 3 can be found in the department areas on the website. At Key Stage 4 and 5 pupils can expect to receive more homework which will be set by subject teachers. Tasks set will include research to prepare for lessons, learning key vocabulary and revision of concepts and skills to help pupils prepare for their GCSE and A Level exams.

To support independent learning school offers homework clubs, ICT facilities and there is a staffed library which is open to pupils to use before and after school.