Homework Policy

​​​At St Francis Xavier Primary School we want all students to realise their full potential, in an atmosphere which reflects Gospel values (School Vision Statement). Consequently, we are committed to providing quality teaching and learning programmes that educate students to be successful, creative, confident learners.

Ratio​nale

At St Francis Xavier Primary School we believe that homework provides students with opportunities to:
  • Consolidate classroom learning.
  • Practise basic skills.
  • Develop positive strategies for learning.
  • Demonstrate daily learning to parents and caregivers and involve family members in the process.
  • Receive positive feedback from home and school.
​The setting of homework takes into account the need for students to have a balanced lifestyle. This includes sufficient time for family, recreation and cultural pursuits. 

Gene​​ral Principles

Homework is most beneficial when:
  • It reinforces and extends classwork and consolidates basic skills and knowledge.
  • It is challenging and purposeful, but not too demanding.
  • Students take responsibility for their homework, supported by their parents or caregivers.
  • It is well coordinated and teacher expectations are clearly communicated.
  • It is set on a regular basis and establishes a routine of home study.
  • Teachers set suitable amounts of homework which are varied and age appropriate.
  • It takes into account students’ home responsibilities and extracurricular activities.
  • It is marked promptly.
  • Feedback is provided to students. 

Responsibi​lities

Parents and caregivers can help by:
  • Taking an interest in homework and assist if necessary.
  • Ensuring that there is time and place set aside for homework.
  • Encouraging their child to read regularly.
  • Assisting teachers to monitor homework by signing completed work if requested.
  • Communicating with teachers any concerns about the nature of homework and their children's approach to the homework. 

Tea​chers can help by:

  • Explaining to students and their parents or caregivers the purpose and benefits of homework.
  • Ensuring students and parents or caregivers are aware of the school’s homework expectations.
  • Providing quality homework activities related to classwork.
  • Setting a suitable amount of relevant homework which is appropriate to the ability of each student.
  • Ensuring that students are aware of what is expected of them, and how their work will be assessed.
  • Marking homework promptly and appropriately, maintaining homework records and providing feedback to students and parents or caregivers.
  • Suggesting strategies that can be used to assist their students with their homework. 

Students can h​elp by:

  • Being aware of the importance of homework and school expectations.
  • Completing homework within the given time frame.
  • Informing parents or caregivers of homework expectations.
  • Seeking assistance from teachers and parents or caregivers when difficulties arise.
  • Completing the work to the best of their ability.

Suggest​​​ed Time allocations



Year LevelTime allocation nightly
Prep
10 mins
Year 1
15 min
Year 2
15 min
Year 3
20 min
Year 4
20 min
Year 5
30 min
Year 6
30 min

 
In addition, students are expected to read each night and parents are encouraged to read to their children.