Home Learning
Ethos
At Highams Park School, we believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom. High‑quality Home Learning plays a vital role in every student’s academic progress, helping them develop independence, resilience, and intellectual curiosity. Our school motto, “Success through our Endeavours,” summarises these values and reflects our belief that future success is achieved through collective hard work, commitment, and consistent effort.
Home Learning supports the development of the school’s Three Rs:
- Responsibility – taking ownership of learning and meeting deadlines
- Respect – valuing the learning process and the hard work of others
- Resilience – developing perseverance and determination when faced with challenge
These values underpin every learning opportunity we offer.
What Do We Mean by Home Learning?
“Home Learning” is broader than traditional homework. It includes:
- Reinforcement of classwork through practice, consolidation, and revision
- Independent tasks such as research, reading, and problem‑solving
- Extended learning through creative projects and curiosity-driven exploration
- Digital learning using Microsoft Teams and other online platforms
Each task is designed to strengthen understanding and ensure students make consistent, meaningful progress.
Where You’ll Find Home Learning (Microsoft Teams)
All Home Learning is set through Microsoft Teams, ensuring clarity and consistency.
Students should check the Assignments section regularly to view:
- Task instructions and attached resources
- Due dates and submission times
- Guidance on how to submit work
Teachers may also post announcements, links, and feedback, keeping everything accessible in one place.
How Often Is Home Learning Set?
KS3 (Years 7–9)
- Short, regular tasks that reinforce classroom learning
- Usually around 30 minutes per subject, spread throughout the week
KS4 (Years 10–11)
- Longer, more detailed assignments linked to GCSE study
- Typically 40 minutes per subject, spread throughout the week, plus structured weekend revision
Post‑16 (Years 12–13)
- Independent study, extended reading, and ongoing preparation aligned with A‑Level or vocational requirements
These expectations help students build strong routines that support academic progress and reflect our values of responsibility and resilience.
What Is Microsoft Teams?
Microsoft Teams is our secure online learning platform. Each class has a dedicated digital space where teachers post resources and assignments. Students can:
- View homework and deadlines
- Access files, links, and videos
- Submit work electronically
- Receive feedback and marks
Students can log in at teams.microsoft.com or through the Teams app using their school account.
How can parents & carers help (Microsoft Teams)
Seeing what’s set:
Log in with your child and check the Assignments tab for current tasks and returned work.
Setting a routine:
Choose a regular time to check Teams together and plan when tasks will be completed.
Notifications:
Encourage your child to enable notifications to stay updated on assignments and teacher messages.
Support, not answers:
Help your child break tasks into steps and encourage them to ask teachers for guidance when needed—while still promoting independence.
Need help?
If your child cannot access Teams or requires technical support, please contact the school for assistance.
How Parents and Carers Can Help (Beyond Teams)
- Talk daily with your child about what has been set, what went well, and any challenges.
- Create a calm, organised space for Home Learning.
- Encourage effective time management:
- Support planning and prioritisation (lists, scheduling, time estimates).
- Encourage a balanced lifestyle with study, rest, physical activity, and social time.
By working together, we can ensure every student achieves “Success through our Endeavours” and builds the Responsibility, Respect, and Resilience needed for future success.