Homework Policy

Date agreed with staff: 01.09.2026

Headteacher: Mrs Lindsey Wilmer

Assistant Headteacher: Mrs Jeni Williams

Review date: September 2029

Overview

After analysing the parent surveys of 2024, a homework survey was sent out to all of our families to ask for thoughts and opinions regarding the homework policy.  From the results, we amended our policy to the below using the majority consensus from the survey.  

1. Our Aims

• Ensure that parents are clear about what their child is expected to do.
• Ensure consistency of approach throughout the school.
• To use homework as a tool to help to continue to raise standards of attainment.
• Provide opportunities for parents, children and the school to work together in partnership in relation to children’s learning.
• Reinforce work covered in class by providing further opportunities for the individual pupil.
• To practise or consolidate basic skills and knowledge in Maths and English.
• To prepare Year 6 pupils for the transfer to secondary school.

2. Recommended Time Allocations

Homework should never be too onerous nor should it ever create stress within the pupil’s family. If parents have any concerns they should not hesitate to contact the school. Below are our recommendations for homework.  We understand that every family life is different which is why these are recommendations only.

• Reading (Accelerated Reader / Phonics) minimum of 10 minutes per day
• Maths (times tables or number bonds) minimum of 5 minutes per day
• Spellings minimum of 5 minutes per day
• SATs preparation for Year 6 as required
• Additional activities may be sent home to support learning where needed

3. Role of the Class Teacher

• To provide an explanation of homework tasks to parents when necessary and give guidance of how they might assist their child.
• To ensure homework is a familiar routine.
• To ensure that homework is set consistently across classes.
• To ensure any homework is purposeful and links directly to the taught curriculum.
• To give feedback to pupils.  
• Teachers are not required to inform parents of feedback.
• Teachers accept that not all children will complete homework given due to personal circumstances.

4. Role of the Headteacher and Academy Community Council

• To check compliancy of this policy.
• To inform families of this policy.
• To meet and talk with families when appropriate.
• To discuss with staff how far this policy has been successful and update when necessary.
• To work with Small & Tall Care Club to allow opportunities for children to complete independent homework should they choose to do so.

5. Role of families

• To support Co-op Academy Friarswood by ensuring that their child attempts the homework.
• To provide a suitable place for their child to carry out their homework.
• To encourage and praise their child when they have completed their homework.

6. Exemptions for homework

• Homework will not be given during periods of absence unless in exceptional circumstances.
• Homework will not be given if a family chooses to take their child out of school, during term time, for a holiday.

7. Equal Opportunities

The Academy Community Council and staff are committed to providing the full range of opportunities for all pupils, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, social, cultural or religious background. All pupils have access to the curriculum, and the right to a learning environment, which dispels ignorance, prejudice or stereotyping.

Co-op Academy Friarswood is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people / vulnerable adults.  We expect all staff, families, visitors and volunteers to share this commitment.