Purposes
To recognise that activities undertaken at home are an important
part of a child's education
To ensure that home and school work together for the benefit of
a child's education
To reinforce existing skills
To provide parents with an understanding of the current approach to teaching topics

Guidelines:
Homework should consist of tasks that are manageable for the child at home, while allowing children to participate fully in community groups
Children should be encouraged to do their best work and to present their work in an interesting and attractive manner
Children should be encouraged to take a pride in their work, supported by their parents
The school encourages the follow up of classroom activities:
An example
Reading - reading books
- visiting the library
- reading together

Mathematics - continual learning of basic facts
- cooking
- building and construction
- shopping
- games (not computer)

Researching & Reviewing
- meeting deadlines with class topics

Spelling - learning of spelling words

Implementation:
Years 0, 1, 2 & 3
Homework at this level is a means of sharing school activities:
- an opportunity to nurture a child's enthusiasm for school
- when studying a particular topic discuss the topic, find suitable resource material
- a time to read and talk together

(a) reading is a key skill
- encourage children to love and read books
- read books from the library
- read to him/her each evening
- read together the school reader
- share the 'home book' together

(b) spelling
- learning the words from the child's spelling book

(c) mathematics
- basic addition facts
- by end of Year 3 begin basic multiplication facts

Years 4, 5 & 6
Homework is important for the development of independent work habits and as a discipline for time management.

(a) reading
- reading continues to be a key skill and needs further development
- reading alone
- reading a favourite story together
- selecting books from the library

(b) spelling
- learning spelling words

(c) mathematics
- learning and revising the basic facts: addition, subtraction, multiplication
- follow up to class sessions

(d) research topics
- as arranged

Years 7 & 8
Homework in this area will be set on a regular basis as children need to be prepared for secondary school. A very important skill is meeting deadlines and emphasis will be placed on this area, with children being given experiences that ensure they are able to organise their time practically and efficiently. For example:

(a) reading
- children to be encouraged to read
- discuss with your child what they are reading
- discuss current events, articles from the paper or magazines
- share with your child what you are reading

(b) mathematics
- completion of maths work from class
- reinforcement of what is learnt at school

(c) spelling
- development of a spelling conscience
- learning lists where appropriate

(d) research topic
- class programmes

If a Years 7/8 level student does not complete or hand in his/her homework on time for two weeks running, then parents will be contacted.

Homework is not to be too onerous. If a child is unable to complete homework a note to the teacher from the child's parent/caregiver should be sent to school. Assistance from parent/caregiver in getting homework returned to school would be appreciated.