Effort, homework and the Marple Hall Spirit

A focus on homework for this week’s blog.

In my humble opinion after 25 years in education (!), homework really matters. It helps pupils practise learning, build independence and develop habits that will serve them well beyond school. Learning doesn’t stop at the end of the day, and we expect homework to be completed consistently and thoughtfully. To this end, thank you to every parent and carer who does their bit and makes sure their children complete their homework on time.

I want to particularly recognise students working towards public examinations who are not only completing set homework, but also engaging in ‘additional learning’ too such as revisiting content, practising exam questions and attending extra sessions. This discretionary effort reflects real determination and readiness, and it will make a meaningful difference.

At the same time, our approach to ‘normal’ homework must reflect the Marple Hall Spirit.

For most pupils, high expectations mean completing homework fully and on time, and we will continue to hold students to account when that does not happen. However for some pupils, particularly those with specific needs, completion within the same timeframe can be genuinely difficult, even when they have additional support and are trying very hard. Where such a student works for the full amount of time set, gives their best effort, and this is communicated by home to the teacher via email or a note on the work, that effort will always be recognised and no sanction will be given. This is not about lowering standards; it is about acting with integrity, fairness and respect.

This is important because we value effort as well as outcome. We believe that trying hard, even when learning is tough, is an achievement in itself. Above all, we want pupils to feel encouraged to keep going, to feel that they belong, and to be supported to try their best the next time and the time after that too. As Miss Gregory often says to students, high standards and kindness go hand in hand. We do no favours by letting students off and lowering our expectations, but equally we do not sanction pupils for barriers they cannot control.

I hope that this clarifies our approach and thanks again for your support,

Best wishes

Joe Barker

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