Homework
Homework Overview
Homework is an important part of learning. Research carried out by the Department for Education indicates that young people who regularly complete homework tasks are more likely than their peers who do not engage in homework to gain at least five good passes in their GCSEs. We want our students to engage in learning beyond the classroom in order to embed knowledge they have acquired in lessons. However, we recognise that certain systems need to be put in place to support young people in completing homework.
Lunchtime and after-school homework support clubs
Students at Thirsk School can attend lunchtime and after-school homework clubs. These are supervised by a member of staff, often with the support of sixth form students. Computers can be used during the homework clubs and work can be printed. Details of when these homework clubs take place are shared with students via their form tutors.
Homework recording
Staff give a verbal explanation of homework set in class. In addition, they record details of homework set on Bromcom (our school management information system), which parents/carers can then view through the My Child at School (MCAS) app. Students can use the Bromcom student portal to check homework. We encourage students to check the Bromcom student portal every day. This can be done using a mobile phone or other device that connects to the internet. If any student has a problem in accessing a device, they can pop into the daily lunchtime homework club where they can use a computer.
Homework monitoring and intervention
If students have not completed a piece of homework by the set deadline, this is recorded by the teacher on Bromcom. Staff may ask students to remain behind at the end of a lesson or to return at break or lunchtime to complete the homework with their support. Alternatively, they may set a second deadline by which students need to complete the work. Failure to attend a break/lunchtime session or to meet the second deadline is also recorded by the teacher on Bromcom. Parents/Carers can monitor the homework codes on the My Child at School app. Form tutors monitor the homework completion of their students across all subjects. Where it is clear that there is a problem, the form tutor will discuss the issue with the student and subsequently with parents/carers. The student may be placed on a homework report and may be requested to attend lunchtime homework sessions.
Homework task types
Each subject determines its own approach to homework, ensuring there is a clear purpose to each piece of homework set and that it links in with the sequence of learning as set out in the curriculum for that subject. An overview of homework task types for each year group follows:
.webp)
.webp)
.webp)
