Homework at Heron Hall Academy

Homework is an important part of learning at Heron Hall Academy. It helps students practise what they have learned in lessons, build strong study habits, and prepare confidently for assessments and exams.

We ensure homework is purposeful, manageable and carefully planned across the week.

Why we set homework

Homework at Heron Hall:

• Reinforces and extends classroom learning
• Strengthens long-term knowledge retention
• Develops independent study skills
• Builds organisation and responsibility
• Prepares students for GCSE and A Level success

We focus on quality over quantity. Homework is always linked directly to what students are learning in class.

How much homework is set?

Homework expectations increase as students move through the school:

• Years 7–8: Around 50–60 minutes per evening
• Years 9–10: Around 70–90 minutes per evening
• Year 11: Around 100–120 minutes per evening
• Sixth Form (Years 12–13): 2–3 hours per school day (including Independent Study lessons)

These are general guidelines to help students develop effective study routines. If a student is regularly spending significantly longer than this, we encourage families to contact the school.

When is homework set?

To support balance and avoid overload, subjects have designated homework days:

• Monday: Science, History
• Tuesday: English, Geography
• Wednesday: Maths, Modern Foreign Languages
• Thursday: RE, Computer Science
• Friday: Creative and option subjects (Art, Music, Drama, PE, DT)

All homework is distributed carefully across the week.

Students are normally given at least five school days to complete homework.

How homework is communicated

Google Classroom is the Academy’s central platform for homework.

All homework is recorded on Google Classroom with:

• Clear instructions
• Deadlines
• Required resources

Links to any additional platforms

Parents and students should use Google Classroom as the main reference point for homework information.

Some subjects may also use specialist platforms (for example Sparx Maths or Seneca), but full details will always be shared via Google Classroom.

What happens if homework is not completed?

Our approach prioritises learning and support.

If homework is not completed:

• We first check that the student had access to the task and required resources.
• Support is provided where needed.
• Where appropriate, follow-up procedures are applied in line with school expectations.

We aim to develop responsibility while ensuring students are supported.

How parents and carers can help

Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting good homework habits. We recommend:

• Providing a quiet, well-lit space for study
• Establishing a regular homework routine
• Minimising distractions (including mobile phones)
• Encouraging organisation and meeting deadlines
• Checking Google Classroom regularly

If you have concerns about workload, access to resources or wellbeing, please contact the school.

More information

Read our letter to parents about homework (PDF) here. 

Read the full Homework Policy (PDF) here.

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