Supporting Learning Beyond the Classroom

At Key Stage 3, homework plays a vital role in reinforcing classroom learning, encouraging independent study habits, and helping students build confidence in applying their knowledge. When completed regularly and thoughtfully, homework can strengthen understanding and improve long-term progress.

To support a healthy work-life balance, our homework structure is carefully designed to be manageable and purposeful. Core subjects, Modern Foreign Languages (MFL), and Humanities set homework weekly, with tasks taking approximately 15–30 minutes to complete. Other subjects set homework across the term based on a total time expectation rather than a fixed number of tasks. For example, Art may set a single creative project to be completed over several weeks, rather than shorter weekly assignments.

There is a clear expectation that students are given at least 3 days between the setting and collection of each homework task at both Key Stages. This provides flexibility for students to plan their time and manage other commitments outside school.

All homework will be set via https://vle.bromcomcloud.com/. Students joining the school in September will receive login details during the first week of term, and those joining mid-year will be supported via their Tutor.

If you have concerns about the quality, quantity, or consistency of homework, please reach out directly to the subject teacher in the first instance, or contact the Head of Subject.

Preparing for Success

At Key Stage 4, homework becomes increasingly important as students deepen their learning and prepare for GCSEs. It plays a key role in developing independence, responsibility, and essential time management skills that support long-term academic and personal success.

In Years 10 and 11, homework is typically set weekly for most subjects and should take around 30–45 minutes per task. Some subjects may set longer, more in-depth tasks that are issued less frequently, but the overall time expectations remain consistent. Please note that Core PE and RE are exceptions and may not set regular homework.

As students approach mock exams and final GCSEs, homework becomes increasingly revision-focused. This is a crucial phase where homework tasks are designed to consolidate prior learning, strengthen exam techniques, and build effective independent revision habits. Students are encouraged to use this time to take ownership of their progress and identify areas they need to revisit.

To support student wellbeing, all homework will continue to follow the three-day minimum turnaround time between setting and submission. This ensures that students can balance their studies with rest, extracurricular activities, and family life.

All homework is set through https://vle.bromcomcloud.com/, where students and parents can view tasks and deadlines. If you have any concerns about homework, please contact the subject teacher or Head of Subject.

Homework and Independent Study in the Sixth Form

In the Sixth Form, independent study becomes a key ingredient for academic success. Homework is not just about completing tasks—it’s about deepening understanding, refining subject knowledge, and developing the skills needed for university, apprenticeships, or the world of work.

Each A Level or Level 3 subject sets at least 3 hours of homework or independent work per week. This may take the form of written assignments, wider reading, exam preparation, or practical project work, depending on the nature of the subject. Students are expected to use their time effectively both in and out of school to meet deadlines and stay on top of their workload.

Homework and independent study are vital for:

• Consolidating learning from lessons
• Practising extended responses and applying knowledge
• Building strong revision habits and academic resilience

As part of our commitment to high achievement, we also encourage students to engage with KS5 Aim Higher—a programme of additional, stretch-and-challenge tasks and resources designed to strengthen understanding and push learning beyond the curriculum. 

All homework will be set via https://vle.bromcomcloud.com/, ensuring students and parents/carers can access clear guidance and deadlines. Sixth Form students are also supported in managing their time through study periods and mentoring where appropriate.

If you have any questions about homework expectations, please speak to the subject teacher, Sixth Form tutor or Head of Year.