It has been two years since we last reviewed our Home Learning policy, which can be found on our school website. The policy prioritises Reading every night, and Numeracy consolidation (connected to concepts being taught in class) and project-based work for the upper grades (3-6). The policy was based on data collected that showed 80% of our families were experiencing stress/angst related to traditional homework tasks and relevant research available at the time. 
 
Given that two years have elapsed since we last reviewed the research and surveyed parents regarding the Home Learning approach, we believe it is time to review the most current research and re-survey parents regarding our policy. This will occur this term, with a survey to parents being published at the end of the term.
 
One of the sources that will be used to inform the review will be meta-analysis of research completed by the Evidence for Learning website related to Primary School Homework. It can be found here if you would like to have a read. The broader evidence base suggests that short, focused tasks or activities that relate directly to what is being taught and built upon in school are likely to be more effective than regular daily homework. Consistent with our current approach, evidence suggests the quality of the task set appears to be more important than the quantity of work required from the student.
 
A key theme coming out of the most current research is the ability to consolidate learning that is occurring in class. As such, teachers may trial sending home activities that consolidate key learning from lessons deemed appropriate by classroom teachers to address needs identified in the class, such as, spelling activities. These activities will be short in nature and should be relevant and targeted towards an identified need.

We strongly advocate a nightly reading routine should be an essential practice for all students in K-6. We recognise that the busy nature of many households many get in the way of all Home Learning activities. If this is the case, please prioritise reading.

Sean Rutledge

Assistant Principal