Homework Policy

This policy is heavily influenced by the following whole school documents;

• Homework Policy KS3/4
• Post 16 Homework Policy

 Key Stage 3

Homework is issued on an “ad-hoc” basis at Key Stage 3.  This is due to the nature of the courses delivered by Business Studies at this level;

• Year 8 – Business Studies is taught on a carousel basis (a eight week cycle)
• Year 9 – Business Studies is taught as a “Preference” option.

Students will record in their planners what homework they have and when it is expected to be handed in.

Key Stage 4

Business Studies is an option subject at Key Stage 4.  In accordance with the school homework policy, approximately one hour of homework will be set each week.

Students will record in their planners what homework they have and when it is expected to be handed in.

The specific type of homework will vary but will include;

Case study based exercises

• Knowledge/understanding consolidation
• Revision for a class based test
• Research into a topic area
• Carrying out an investigation to generate data.
• Occasionally, finishing off work started in class.

Failure to complete homework (without a “reasonable” reason) will initiate the following sanctions;

1. Break-time/lunchtime detention – Failure to complete will result in;
2. Second opportunity to attend break-time/lunchtime detention – Failure to complete will result in;
3. Departmental After School Detention – Failure to complete will result in
4. Pastoral After School Detention

Parental contact may be made at any of the above stages.  We ask that parents support the Business Studies Department by;

• Making sure that students do their homework at a suitable time in an appropriate place.
• Checking and signing planners regularly.
• Taking an interest in what is being done
• Encouraging high standards of accuracy and presentation.
• Supporting the school when punishments are used for not completing homework.

Queries about homework should be addressed to the relevant classroom teacher.

Key Stage 5

In accordance with the school homework policy, approximately three hours of homework will be set each week.

The type of work set will vary according to the topic and the classroom teacher, but it will include;

• Research tasks based on primary and secondary sources
• Preparation for class based activities
• The completion of actual/exemplar Past papers
• Knowledge consolidation/extension exercises

The completion of homework by Key Stage 5 is not a voluntary activity; it is an integral part of their development as Business students.

Students can expect Business Studies teachers to mark set homework, and return it to students within 2 weeks. Wherever practical, marking will include real time grades and written comments to encourage further progress.

As per guidance stated in “Post 16 Homework Policy (January 2009), any student who persistently misses homework deadlines, or whose work falls below expectations, will be referred to their Professional Tutor. The Professional Tutor will interview the student and set targets for improved performance.

Parental contact by the classroom teacher/Head of Department is also likely should students persistently miss homework deadlines, or whose work falls below expectations.