Homework

Homework at Alde Valley Academy

Aspire and Achieve through Independent Learning

At Alde Valley Academy, we believe that homework plays a key role in helping students aspire and achieve. It supports the development of independent learning habits, deepens understanding, and ensures knowledge is retained over time—helping every student make strong and sustained progress.

We know that simply completing homework isn’t enough. It must be meaningful, challenging, and focused on learning. To support this, we use a set of research-informed techniques.

Work Hard Strategies – A Four-Week Cycle

• Week 1: Self-Quizzing

• Week 2: Dual Coding

• Week 3: Write to Learn

• Week 4: Brain Dump

These strategies are introduced to Year 7 students during tutor time and revisited throughout their school journey. They help students build a toolkit of effective study methods that boost memory, confidence, and performance—key ingredients for success in school and beyond.

Retrieval Practice and Knowledge Organisers

Retrieval practice is a powerful way to strengthen learning. Each term, students receive a Knowledge Organiser containing key vocabulary, facts, and concepts for each subject. These are used for both in-class learning and homework.

• At Key Stage 3, homework focuses on practising and recalling this core knowledge.

• At Key Stage 4, homework includes both knowledge retrieval and exam practice to prepare students for GCSE success.

Knowledge Organisers are also available to download from our website to support learning at home.

By taking ownership of their homework and developing strong independent study skills, our students live out our value of Aspire and Achieve—striving for excellence, rising to challenges, and unlocking their full potential.