Home learning fuels focus, builds aspiration, and unlocks every child’s potential for lifelong success.
At Simon Balle All-through School, we take immense pride in guiding students on a continuous journey from the age of four through to eighteen as we believe education is the key to transforming lives and preparing young people to become active, positive contributors to society. This is why our broad, progressive curriculum is designed not only to inspire children academically but also to build their character and sense of self.
Home learning embodies this vision and plays a vital role in this journey – it reinforces learning beyond the classroom, helps develop essential skills like focus and self-discipline, and nurtures the motivation and aspiration needed for lifelong success. By encouraging children to engage deeply with their studies, practice critical thinking, and embrace challenges with a growth mindset it helps them to develop the ability to concentrate and persist through tasks; these skills that are crucial not only for school but for future opportunities. Most importantly, it links directly to improved academic outcomes by allowing students to consolidate their understanding and apply knowledge independently. The impact of regular engagement in home learning is evident:
- The EEF estimates that regular home learning in schools delivers up to an average gain of 5 additional months of academic progress. (Education Endowment Foundation)
- Home learning routines can increase a student’s ability to concentrate by up to 30%. (National Education Association)
- Home learning promotes a growth mindset which results in 34% improvement in increased motivation and the setting of higher academic goals. (British Journal of Educational Psychology)
- Research by the Education Endowment Foundation indicates that providing meaningful, purposeful homework tasks can increase student motivation by up to 25%.
- 74% of students reported feeling more confident managing their own learning. (Education Week)
To achieve these outcomes we understand that the quality of the work set is critical and we are committed to ensuring that every student has access to high-quality home learning experiences. To achieve this, teachers will, at a minimum, uphold our agreed Home Learning Principles, which are grounded in research and designed to maximise impact. These principles help ensure consistency, clarity, and equity, allowing all learners to benefit – regardless of background or ability:
Home Learning is a tool for learning, not just completion. Staff provide timely, constructive feedback that encourages reflection. This can be online, whole class led and at the end or start of lessons.
By embracing home learning, you are partnering with us to build your child’s confidence, drive, and focus, ensuring they benefit from a first-class education that goes beyond facts and figures. This partnership helps cultivate resilience, curiosity, and a love of learning, empowering your child to reach their highest potential. Home learning is more than just an assignment – it is an essential step on the path to aspiration, achievement, and lifelong success.
Our Home Learning policy can be found here.