What is the purpose of homework?

Homework plays a key part in students’ learning across the whole curriculum at Silverdale.

At Silverdale, we view homework as an opportunity for students to work independently to consolidate and extend knowledge and skills. Homework is work that is set to be completed outside the timetabled classroom.

Research shows that students have increased success in complex tasks (E.g. examinations, problem-solving etc.) when they have a detailed knowledge of subject content and the skills required to apply this knowledge.

By committing the skills and knowledge required to long-term memory, it frees up working memory so that processing information is easier when solving problems. It also enables students to develop their independent study skills, self-discipline and time management. The Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) highlights that homework can have a positive impact of up to 5 months' additional progress, particularly when it is purposeful, well-structured, and directly linked to classroom learning.

At Silverdale, we utilise a range of different services and technologies to assist in the management of homework for students as well as offering a boost to their learning.

Schedule

Key stage 3

Subject	Platform	Day Set	Day Due	Time Required
Languages	Language Nut	Monday	Thursday	At least 30 minutes (weekly)
Science	Sparx*	Tuesday	Monday	At least 30 minutes (weekly)
Maths	Sparx	Thursday	Tuesday	At least 30 minutes (weekly)
English	Sparx	Friday	Wednesday	At least 30 minutes (weekly)
Other subjects	Directed by teacher	Varies	Varies	At least 30 minutes (weekly)

*Science may include a mixture of online tasks and written assignments

Key stage 4

At Key Stages 4 and 5, homework expectations are decided by departments. Core subjects continue to use Sparx and Language Nut.

Expectations

• At Key Stage 3 students should expect to receive up to 30 minutes of homework per subject, per week.
• Teachers should set homework consistently on Google Classroom (GC).
• Deadlines should be reasonable, with at least 3 days between setting and submission.

Student Responsibilities

• Record homework carefully and check Google Classroom for details.
• Complete tasks to the best of their ability and submit them on time.
• Seek help from teachers in advance if they are struggling to complete a task.

Support Available

• Students can attend the Homework Club in the library (Monday-Thursday 3:20-4:15pm) if they would benefit from more support, need IT facilities including computers and access to Sparx or would like a quiet place to study.
• All Year 7 students receive an introductory lesson in how to use Google Classroom, and parents are provided with a guide.
• Parents are encouraged to support by providing time, space, and encouragement for homework at home.
• Parents will have access to records of homework set on Google Classroom and should contact the Key Stage Offices if they have concerns or queries.

Feedback and Rewards

• All homework will be acknowledged by teachers, with feedback given in line with departmental policy (written, verbal, or self/peer assessment).
• Rewards are used to motivate and celebrate effort. Examples include:
  • Subject-specific rewards (e.g., MFL students earning recognition via Language Nut).
  • Whole-school celebration assemblies recognising commitment to independent learning.

Monitoring and Sanctions

• Non-completion of homework is recorded on Arbor.
• Students automatically receive an S1 detention (10 minutes at lunch in a computer room) where they can complete tasks with access to online learning platforms.
• If a student fails to complete homework in the same subject three times, Arbor triggers a letter home from the Head of Department (currently in English, Maths, Science, and MFL).
• Persistent failure to complete homework will be followed up according to the school’s wider behaviour policy.
• Praise and recognition will be given for consistent effort and high-quality work, ensuring a balance of sanctions and rewards.

 

Further information on our approach to remote learning is available on our trust policies page.