Independent Learning

• Research suggests that the impact of homework on learning is consistently positive and can lead to an average of five months’ additional progress.
• Research shows that in the most effective examples, homework is integral to the learning, not just an add on.
• Independent Learning (homework) is most effective when it involves practice or rehearsal of subject matter already taught. Scholars should typically not be exposed to new material to learn at home, unless they are deemed as ‘expert learners’.
• Complex or open-ended homework is often completed least effectively; short frequent homework which is monitored closely by teachers is likely to have a bigger impact.
• A recent study examining the correlation between time spent on homework and academic achievement showed that homework completed by the scholar independently for 60-70 minutes a day had the biggest impact (Institute for Effective Education, 2015).

1. All subjects will issue scholars with the core knowledge required to be successful in a term’s programme of study to quiz via their core knowledge booklet. This will be broken down into ‘blocks’ so that scholars can master each block before moving on.
2. In Mathematics, scholars will be required to quiz core knowledge, as well as completing consolidation activities via Hegarty Maths.
3. To demonstrate their understanding of the core knowledge, scholars will ‘self quiz’ the core knowledge each week using their independent learning exercise book.
4. Scholars will be given at least 48hours to complete these tasks before the responses are reviewed and checked.
5. Scholars are required to read independently for pleasure for a minimum of 90minutes each week.

To support scholars to manage their time and develop effective independent study skills, scholars are encouraged to follow the below schedule:

1. Independent learning will follow the same format as in Key Stage 3, but 2 x 40min written/ preparatory tasks will also be set in addition to core knowledge for each subject. The purpose of this is to give scholars frequent opportunities to independently apply their knowledge in context. As scholars progress through their courses, these additional written tasks will increasingly be replaced by examination questions to complete. 
2. To help scholars develop good routines, there is a standardised timetable that all scholars should follow from the beginning of Key Stage 4. This sets out the minimum expectations for work and builds in time for breaks and rest.