Homework Policy

St Peter’s Homework Policy

At St Peter’s Primary School, we believe homework serves as an essential tool for consolidating learning, fostering study habits and encouraging family engagement in the learning process.

Research-Informed Practice

This policy is guided by John Hattie’s research on visible learning and the development of effective study habits. Research shows that homework is most effective when it reinforces previously taught material rather than introducing entirely new concepts.

A key idea in learning is the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)—the space between what a child can do independently (Zone of Actual Development) and what they can achieve with support. Homework should sit within this zone, reinforcing familiar concepts rather than introducing new ones. This approach helps students build confidence through practice without feeling overwhelmed.

PURPOSE

Homework at St. Peter’s Primary is designed to:

  • Reinforce previously taught concepts.
  • Develop study habits and routines that support lifelong learning.
  • Encourage responsibility and independence in completing tasks.
  • Provide opportunities for parental involvement and understanding of their child’s learning

Homework will not introduce new concepts but will instead focus on consolidating knowledge and skills.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

  • Homework is sighted but not formally marked
  • Tasks should be manageable, purposeful and aligned with classroom learning.
  • The time allocated for homework will vary depending on the year level, promoting balance between study and personal activities.
  • Homework is not a form of assessment and will not be individually tailored. If a child requires specific adjustments, these will be addressed through a personalised learning plan, SMART goal or discussions between the teacher and
  • St. Peter’s does not provide homework for students during extended absences. Families are encouraged to focus on reading, real-world learning experiences and maintaining routines where possible.

YEAR LEVEL EXPECTATIONS

Prep to Year 2

  • Around 20 – 30 minutes of daily reading using take-home readers or other provided materials.
  • Sight/Tricky words and spelling practice as appropriate.
  • Assigned Mathletics tasks to consolidate numeracy skills.
  • Access and use of online platforms such as Seesaw or similar.
  • Occasional project-based or creative assignments to complete with family support, with flexibility for submission.

Years 3 to 6

  • 30 minutes of daily reading as part of routine practice.
  • Assigned Mathletics tasks to consolidate numeracy skills.
  • Occasional project-based or creative assignments, with flexibility for submission.
  • Tasks may also include uploading student-created work (e.g., reading, writing, or maths) to platforms like Seesaw.

IMPLEMENTATION

Teachers will ensure:

  • Homework is clearly communicated to students.
  • Homework is purposeful and aligns with the curriculum.

Parents and carers are encouraged to:

  • Provide a suitable environment for homework completion.
  • Support their child’s learning without completing tasks for them.
  • Communicate with teachers if homework presents consistent challenges.