Homework Policy

Guidelines about homework in our school

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Why is homework given?

Homework is given to:

  • Reinforce what a child has learned during the day.
  • Provide a link between class teacher and parents.

When is homework given?

Homework is given on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Homework may be assigned on Fridays:

  • if homework is neglected during the week.
  • in senior classes where occasionally some project work may be undertaken at weekends.

Sometimes, at the discretion of the teacher or principal, children are given “homework off” as a reward or as an acknowledgement of a special occasion. This applies to written homework only.

Homework Content:

  • In general, homework is meant to be achievable by pupils working on their own to the best of their ability and is differentiated to match their ability.
  • Ideally homework will contain a balance between reading tasks, learning tasks and written activities.
  • The balance is not always achievable and can vary from day to day. However, it should be noted that homework time devoted to reading and learning is as important as that given to written homework.
  • It is expected that all homework assigned will generally be completed. A high standard of neatness and penmanship is expected.

How long should homework take?

It is important to remember that it is quality and not quantity of homework that matters. The following are general guidelines on time:

  • Infants: 20 minutes
  • 1st+2nd class: 20-30 minutes
  • 3rd+4th class: 30-45 minutes
  • 5th+6th class: 45-60 minutes

If your child has worked hard free of distractions and interruptions for the recommended time, and has still not completed their homework, you may sign their notebook and add a line to the teacher to indicate that they have worked to the best of their ability for the full amount of time recommended. No child should be spending hours on homework.

We would also strongly recommend that all children read for pleasure each evening, and we would caution against excessive time being spent on electronic devices and games.

All classes from Junior Infants to 2nd Class inclusive take part in our “Literacy Lift Off” project each year for approximately 5 or 6 weeks each. We appreciate that children may need to spend a little longer on reading homework for these particular weeks, and we hugely appreciate the extra time and support given to this very beneficial project by Parents/Guardians.

Role of Parents/Guardians:

  • Set a suitable time for homework, provide an appropriate working environment and ensure their child has all necessary books and equipment to complete homework.
  • Encourage their child to do their best, observe the work, give credit for effort and check over completed work.
  • Prompt and guide if help is necessary. However, homework should be the pupil’s own work. If any difficulties arise, or if homework cannot be completed within the recommended time frame, this should be communicated to the class teacher by writing a note in the homework journal or by making an appointment to speak with him/her.
  • Parents are asked to sign their child’s homework journal/sheet each night when homework has been completed.

Ratification, communication and review

Following consultation with all of the school partners, this policy was ratified at a Board of Management meeting on 31st May 2022. It will be explained fully to all children, by the class teachers, at the start of every school term. It will be available to parents and the wider school community both in the school and on the school website. It will be communicated to staff by email, and also saved on the staff server. It will be reviewed every two years, or sooner if requested by any member of the school community.

Signed: Chairperson BOM

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