Dear Parents and Carers,

Tell Them From Me: Your Questions Answered - Homework

Our recent survey indicated to us that there are some issues which are proving to be confusing, or which require clarification for some of our families. This term, I’ll be addressing these in my fortnightly newsletter inclusion. This week, let’s clarify our Homework Agreed Practice.

Late in 2022, our  Homework Committee distributed a survey to parents, students, and staff to find out how our community engages in homework. Overwhelmingly, reading and numeracy skills were seen as a priority. Families who participated in the survey also let us know that they have limited time each night to dedicate to homework. While there is not much research on the benefits of homework, we know that homework can be a positive experience for students if the tasks are achievable and can be completed independently. Homework can help to build skills in time management and organisation. It also assists students to retain information, improve their study skills and demonstrate learning outside of school. We also recognise the importance of family life and the need for children to participate in family  and community activities. The committee developed an agreed practice, and this was presented to staff and to the Community Council for their approval. 

At St Matthew’s, we believe that homework:

• creates an important link between school and home;
• develops personal responsibility, time management and organisational skills; and
• provides opportunities to consolidate classroom learning.

Families can find a copy of our Agreed Practice for Homework on our school website, and it is included in this newsletter.   

Please get in touch with me if you have any other questions about our Agreed Practice for Homework.   

Parenting Principles for our Digital Natives: Free Webinar August 17 at 7:30pm (AEST)

If technology is crashing into your life, or your want a roadmap to help guide your family’s digital choices, this is the webinar for you!

Raising children with a device in hand and access to the world introduces many challenges into homes. Coping with the necessary protections, managing screen-related behaviours and having a plan for all eventualities matters.

Having worked for 30 years with children and their families, Claire Orange invites you to join her in this practical webinar at no cost, as she guides parents through what's actually happening in the online space and how to manage their child's access effectively. It's a no-nonsense 45 minute exploration of the big issues we're facing and the most practical ways to start tackling them. In this webinar, join Claire for an exploration of setting off as you mean to continue, with some easy-to-apply digital parenting practices that work.

Click here to register.

Petra Cole

Assistant Principal

petra.cole@cg.catholic.edu.au

Petra Cole
Assistant Principal 
petra.cole@cg.catholic.edu.au