Homework

Homework is not necessarily written work. It is any task that a child is asked to complete at home. It may consist of reading, learning by heart and reinforcement of class work, research and project work or further practice of skills learned in class.
Good primary school practice requires that we give credence to other developmental needs of the child. At St. Joseph’s we appreciate the value of extra curricular activities, (sport, music, dancing, drama, the uniformed groups, other hobbies, etc.). We recognise the demands made on pupils in Year 3 as they undertake the Sacramental Preparation Programme and in setting homework we allow space for these. A well balanced, healthy child should be encouraged to develop their particular interests in many of these activities in their own time.

We expect that the average amount of time to be spent on homework each evening, including non-written tasks such as; reading, learning tables, spellings etc., will be approximately:

• Key Stage 1        10-20 mins i.e. up to 1 1/2 hours per week
• Years 3 and 4    20-30 mins i.e. up to 2 1/2 hours per week
• Years 5 and 6    30-40 mins i.e. up to 3 1/2 hours per week

Homework is considered an integral part of the curriculum. It enriches and consolidates, develops research skills and cultivates the mind to nurture the seeds of knowledge, therefore homework, when set, is compulsory.

As with all other matters relating to children, teachers are available to discuss homework with parents.