Homework at Brill

Learning Beyond the Classroom

At Brill Church of England School, we believe that learning does not stop when the school day ends. Homework provides an opportunity for children to consolidate key skills, develop independence and build confidence in their learning.

Our approach to homework is designed to be manageable, purposeful and closely linked to classroom learning. We know that family life is busy, so we focus on the areas that have the greatest impact on children’s progress: reading, spelling, handwriting and mathematics.

By working together, we can help every child develop the strong foundations they need to flourish both now and in the future.

Weekly Homework Expectations

Homework is sent home every Friday.

Reading

We ask all children to read at home at least 3–4 times each week.

Reading together can take many forms:

• Listening to your child read.
• Sharing a story together.
• Discussing characters and events.
• Exploring new vocabulary.
• Talking about books your child enjoys.

Most importantly, we want children to develop a lifelong love of reading and see books as a source of enjoyment, imagination and learning.

Mathematics

Children will bring home carefully selected pages from their White Rose Maths Home Learning Book.

These activities are designed to reinforce learning from the classroom and develop fluency and confidence.

Maths books should be returned to school every Wednesday, even if all activities have not been completed. This allows teachers to:

• Celebrate success.
• Provide feedback.
• Identify misconceptions.
• Adapt future teaching where needed.

If your child has found any part of the work particularly difficult, please make a note in their book. This information is incredibly helpful in supporting learning.

Spelling

Children will also receive weekly spellings linked directly to the spelling patterns and rules being taught in school.

We encourage children to practise their spellings regularly throughout the week. A few minutes of focused practice several times a week is usually far more effective than one longer session.

Handwriting

Developing neat, fluent handwriting supports children across all areas of the curriculum.

Regular practice at home helps children build confidence in letter formation, presentation and joined handwriting skills.

Supporting Learning at Home

Spelling Practice Ideas

Children learn spellings best when practice is varied and enjoyable.

You might like to try:

• Look, Cover, Write, Check
• Say it, Spell it, Say it
• Spotting spelling patterns
• Using words in sentences
• Quick spelling quizzes
• Magnetic letters, whiteboards or letter cards
• Short, regular practice sessions

The aim is to build confidence and familiarity with spelling rules rather than simply memorising words for a test.

Handwriting Practice Ideas

A few minutes of regular practice can make a significant difference.

Helpful activities include:

• Practising correct letter formation.
• Copying short words or sentences.
• Focusing on letter size and positioning.
• Practising joins where appropriate.
• Writing shopping lists, cards or labels.
• Using chalk, whiteboards, sand trays or other creative materials.
• Encouraging children to take pride in presentation.

We always encourage children to focus on accuracy and care before speed.

Working Together

Research consistently shows that regular reading, basic skills practice and positive encouragement at home have a significant impact on children’s achievement.

Thank you for supporting your child with their homework. Your encouragement, interest and enthusiasm play an invaluable role in helping them become confident, ambitious and successful learners.

Together, we can help every child leave Brill with the wind in their sails.

Documents

“We wanted to write to inform you of how successful the new homework has been for us as a family.
My child has thoroughly enjoyed planning and being creative with the tasks. As parents of a child who is easily frustrated with the academic side of school, it has been wonderful to see her so enthusiastic!
Our child has accessed so many areas of the school curriculum, whilst working on her tasks without becoming overwhelmed!
As parents, we love the flexibility this new style of homework brings. Our child has most definitely gained a greater wealth of knowledge which will be memorable! We have also enjoyed spending the time together!”

Year 4 Parent