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Our children work hard for a relatively long school day and it is important that they spend time with family and friends and in pursuing other activities. There are nonetheless some aspects of schoolwork that can be usefully reinforced at home. A list of spellings is sent home weekly to learn for a test the following week; it is expected that the children read individually to an adult each evening at home; tables need to be practised regularly. Otherwise no formal homework is set, although there may be the occasional special assignment.
Juniors (ages 8 to 11) In years J1 to J4, the children are set weekly homework in core subjects (English, Maths and Science) and regular homework in other subjects. This is designed to extend and revise topics taught in class. The amount of homework increases over the four years so that by J4 pupils will be expected to complete 30 - 40 minutes of homework in one or two subjects per night. Individual pupil's needs and abilities may mean tasks set are differentiated in terms of time or content. If any child is unable to complete the homework without help, the parent is asked to note in the homework diary where help was given, so that the teacher is able to do the necessary follow-up work with that pupil. Homework is an important element in helping us to determine whether a pupil is keeping up with a topic and has understood concepts taught in class. We regard it furthermore as a valuable skill that should be developed before moving on to Senior School where the ability to organise, prioritise and work independently are invaluable. We do, however, try to keep it to a minimum in order that the children may have plenty of time to follow other interests, read, play and relax.
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