TFA’s Homework Policy

At The Farnley Academy Key Stage 3 students (Year 7 & 8) are set homework every week for core subjects, and on a rotation for all other subjects. Each piece should take the student 30 minutes. In Key Stage 4 (Years 9, 10 and 11) students are set homework in every subject, every week. Each piece should take the student 1 hour.

All homework is to be completed in the exercise book. Any resources are printed on blue paper and neatly glued in. If printing is not required, a blue homework stamp is required to clearly denote the work.

Here are 7 tips to help you get your homework completed successfully:

  1. Create a purposeful environment.
    Ensure you have an ideal space to complete your homework, big enough to put your books and resources, away from mess and distractions. Ensure all you work is organised, this will help you feel more prepared and able to get things done properly.
  1. Make a plan
    Write down what homework or revision you need to do in a week as well as all of the other things you do every day – like spending time with friends or tidying up. You can then make a plan of what you need to do and when.
  1. Do a bit at a time
    Take regular breaks to help you focus, for example you could work for 30 minutes and then take 10 minutes to do something else. Make sure you take time to eat healthily and exercise.
  2. Use revision tools
    Try using tools such as GCSE mind maps to help understand course content. You could also try writing things you want to remember on post-it notes and stick them on things where you live, like a door, wall or fridge, so you’ll see them every time you walk past.
  3. Remove the distractions
    Put your phone somewhere else and make sure the TV is off so that you’re not tempted to do something else when you’re doing homework or revision.
  4. Think about what’s helped before
    If you’ve taken exams before, write down what helped you revise and what you found difficult. For each thing you found difficult, try and think of what you could do differently.
  5. Ask for help if you’re strugglingIt can be tough trying to catch up when you feel like you’re falling behind. Asking for help at school or from an adult you trust means that they can be there to give you support.