The purpose of homework

At St Katherine’s, we see homework as an essential part of learning. Research from cognitive science shows that students learn best when new information is revisited, practised and applied over time. This process helps move knowledge into long-term memory, making it easier to recall and use in the future.

Homework provides this opportunity. It is deliberate practice — purposeful, focused work that strengthens understanding, builds fluency and supports long-term progress. Without this practice, learning is more easily forgotten and students do not make the progress they are capable of.

Homework also plays an important role in developing independence, resilience and organisation. It helps students learn an important life lesson: their learning is within their control, and consistent effort makes a real difference.

A balanced and supportive approach

We recognise that our students lead busy lives. Many support their families, take part in co-curricular activities or have commitments beyond school. Our aim is not to overload students, but to help them manage their workload successfully while still gaining the full benefits of practice.

To support both students and parents, we have put the following structures in place:

Supervised homework space at lunchtime

 Computer Room 2 is open at lunchtimes, giving students a quiet, supported environment where they can complete homework using school resources.

Clear and visible homework tracking

 All homework is set on ClassCharts, where:

• tasks are clearly explained
• deadlines are visible
• completion is recorded

This allows students to build good organisational habits and enables parents to easily support and monitor progress.

A structured homework timetable at Key Stage 3

 At KS3, homework is set Tuesday to Thursday only.

 This approach:

• avoids overload
• gives students time to plan and organise
• leaves Monday and Friday for reminders, preparation and catching up on upcoming deadlines

How homework is set and monitored

All homework is set through the ClassCharts online portal. Students and parents/carers are provided with unique logins, allowing homework tasks and deadlines to be easily accessed and monitored. Parents with more than one child at St Katherine’s (or across different schools) can view all children using the same parent account.

Homework completion is recorded on ClassCharts, supporting students to develop good organisational habits and enabling parents to support learning at home.

Online homework platforms

Sparx (Mathematics and Science)

We use Sparx to support homework in both Mathematics and Science. The platform offers:

• carefully sequenced practice questions
• short tutorial videos
• adaptive learning that responds to students’ answers

Sparx builds an accurate picture of a student’s understanding and adjusts the level of challenge accordingly. For this reason, it is important that students complete their own work, as incorrect input can lead to questions becoming unnecessarily difficult.

Our shared commitment

Homework is most effective when school, students and parents work together. We are committed to:

• setting purposeful, meaningful homework
• supporting students to complete it successfully
• being mindful of wellbeing and workload

In return, we encourage students to see homework not as an add-on, but as a vital part of learning — an opportunity to practise, improve and take ownership of their progress.

If you have any concerns about homework or workload, we welcome open communication and are always happy to help.