At King's Academy Ringmer (KAR), we are committed to providing a high-quality education that helps every student reach their full potential. One of the key components of this educational journey is homework, which serves as an essential tool in reinforcing classroom learning and fostering independent study skills. The following outlines the importance of homework and presents some key statistics that support its role in student success.
Homework at KAR is carefully planned to provide students with opportunities to practise what they have learnt in class, enhancing retention and deepening their understanding of the subject matter. We use a range of Internet-based platforms such as Sparx and Tassomai to provide homework, which include materials to support the learning as well as to provide tasks that are tailored to each individual student.
Studies consistently show a positive relationship between homework and academic achievement, particularly at the secondary school level. According to research conducted by the Educational Endowment Foundation (EEF), regular and meaningful homework can improve academic performance by up to five months' additional progress each year, particularly when the assignments are well-planned and linked to classroom learning.
Research conducted by Harris Cooper and colleagues at Duke University found that 1 to 2 hours of homework per night for secondary school students can significantly improve learning outcomes. Students who completed assigned homework regularly outperformed those who did not, demonstrating better understanding and retention of key concepts.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) also found that students in countries with moderate homework loads tend to perform better on standardised tests like the PISA exams. Their data indicates that students who spend about an hour on homework each day achieve higher scores compared to those who either do no homework or spend an excessive amount of time on it.
Beyond the clear benefits of improved attainment, homework also encourages independent learning by requiring students to apply their knowledge without immediate teacher guidance. This autonomy helps students develop problem-solving skills, time-management, resilience, and a sense of personal accountability. These attributes not only contribute to academic success but are also critical for students' personal growth and future professional endeavours and support KARs aim of ensuring our students leave as well rounded, confident individuals who are world ready.
To maximise the benefits of homework, we encourage parents to create a structured and supportive environment for learning at home. Setting aside a quiet space and a regular time each day for homework can help students develop consistent study habits and reduce stress. When parents engage in their child's homework, it provides an opportunity for meaningful interaction and insight into what their child is learning at school. This engagement has been linked to higher levels of academic motivation and achievement.
Homework is an invaluable part of the learning process that reinforces classroom lessons, builds essential life skills, and supports academic achievement. By encouraging and supporting your child's homework habits, you are contributing significantly to their educational success and lifelong learning journey.
At KAR, we aim to celebrate successful completion of homework through our rewards system. We also recognise that sometimes homework is not completed due to a student being stuck. In such circumstances, it is important to communicate with the class teacher before the deadline. We will be providing lunchtime sessions where staff will support completing homework, as well as informing parents when homework has not been completed. If students fail to complete homework and have not endeavoured to seek this support, then they will receive a lunchtime detention.
If you have any questions regarding homework, please contact your child’s tutor in the first instance.
School E-mail
You can also access your school email through Google Mail and Edulink.
Please see the video below from Dr Neal for help using Google Classroom
If the quality of the above video is too poor try this link below: