Learning and Teaching
Homework Policy
A central part of the St Bede’s College education is ensuring that students develop appropriate routines and structures that set them up for learning. Teachers rely on students applying themselves to their learning outside the classroom in order to consolidate their skills and understanding, with repeated exposures allowing students to make the requisite development in order to succeed. The Homework Policy serves as a guide when determining what time should be devoted to learning outside the classroom, and should be considered when working with students to determine what leads to success.
There are several fundamental ideas regarding how best to set up for learning at home. Certainly, creating a set space is important, as is establishing a routine that students commit to. A quiet yet visible space works best with clear strategies around managing distractions. For example, phones are a major cause of distraction and their access should be limited whilst studying. Parental check-ins, whereby questions are asked about what is happening in class, what is being learnt, and where the challenges lie, are all appropriate. Additionally, finding out what is on the horizon regarding work tasks and assessments can be particularly helpful with organisation and planning.
In the early years of secondary school, the focus should be on developing a strong homework/study habit. From the policy, which can be found here, the following forms a guide to how much time should be devoted to home study at each year level.
It is recommended that students in Year 7-10 complete homework/study five times per week following the guidelines below:
Year 7: 1 - 1.5 hours
Year 8: 1 - 1.5 hours
Year 9: 1.5 - 2 hours
Year 10: 2 - 2.5 hours
It is recommended that students undertaking VCE studies complete the following amount of homework/study per week:
Unit1/2: 3-4 hours per subject per week
Unit 3/4: 4 - 5 hours per subject per week
The College expectation is that every student is undertaking homework/study regularly and developing the organisational skills and self-discipline required to do so. Should any parents or carers require assistance or support in this regard, please do not hesitate to make contact with us.
Parent Consultation- Habits Rubric
As indicated in the previous newsletter, we are looking to gather some parent feedback regarding assessing of student classroom habits. We believe that by giving parents a voice in the way that students are assessed in this regard, our learning culture will be both better understood and stronger, leading to improved student outcomes. Should you wish to play a part, you will need to book via the TryBooking link that is below. Attendance is optional however most welcome.
https://www.trybooking.com/BZXZT
We look forward to seeing you there.
Brenden Mair
Deputy Principal
Teaching and Learning