Pedagogy and Practice

Learning at Home

Learning at Home refers to any time that is dedicated to learning away from the classroom. In the past this was called “homework”, a phrase that continues to be used widely when referring to learning away from the classroom. A modern take on the older expression of homework is now “Home Learning”, where the intentional emphasis is placed on the learning that students engage in. St Andrews College is emphasising the updated terminology of Home Learning so that we reinforce the importance of making time to engage in study outside of designated classroom time. 

With the emphasis now being placed on “learning” as opposed to working, we hope that all of our students in years 7 to 12 are able to create positive and sustainable routines that encourage and support learning away from the classroom. 

Positive routines lead to positive habits, which play a significant role in improving the learning outcomes of students. Forming good study habits from an early age sets up students for success throughout their secondary schooling as well as into time beyond school.

Home Learning guidelines are published on page 17A of the College’s Learning Planner (“Diary”), which present recommendations for the amount of quality, dedicated time students should spend actively engaging in the learning process when at home, or when away from the classroom itself. 

By helping students better manage their time away from the classroom, we are assisting them gain as much deeper understanding as possible, which, in turn, forms excellent routines that will be of benefit to them throughout their lives.

Mr Paul Haras
Leader of Pedagogy and Practice