Homework in the Sixth Form

Only part of the academic experience of the Sixth Former takes place in the classroom; a great deal more is covered by the individual students in their out-of-class time, either completing teacher-set tasks or researching and exploring their subjects more widely. 

In addition to class contact time, Sixth Formers should expect to undertake study outside the classroom of about:

• 4 hours per subject per week in the Lower Sixth
• 6 hours per subject per week in the Upper Sixth

Some of this out-of-class study will be the completion of specific tasks set by the teacher; in addition, pupil-generated note-taking, extension tasks, wider reading, revision and other academic organisation are essential.

Homework will be set by teachers and is an essential part of the student experience as you develop your knowledge and skills in advance of exams and the likely transfer to the academic world of Higher Education.  

Sixth Form Study Periods

Most Sixth Form pupils have a number of study periods each week and it is expected that they make the best possible use of them. Pupils are encouraged to use the Sixth Form Learning Centre or the College and departmental libraries although they may also work in their Houses. Checks are made to ensure that the system is not being abused and in the case of persistent offenders structured study periods are organised.

Above all else, learning to manage deadlines is the key skill developed by those who go on to become successful school and university students.  In the Sixth Form, tasks and deadlines are not timetabled for specific days, but are set as dictated by the nature of the course and the demands of exams.  At times, there can be a build up of deadlines, with several pieces of work due at more or less the same time.  Tutors and teachers will work with individuals to help them develop mechanisms for managing this fluctuating workload.