Independent Study

Independent Learning at Tottington High School

Independent study is an integral part of learning in order for students to achieve the best possible outcomes. Not only is it important for students to get used to working at home so that they are able to prepare for the study skills necessary for their exams, but also it is a key skill required to cope with professional demands in many careers and industries.

Independent learning will always link to the curriculum studied in school with opportunities to consolidate and practise learning. We believe that home study should not place an unnecessary burden on children or parents and carers.

In order to support this, KS3 independent learning will be linked to the key learning objectives in students’ Knowledge Organisers so parents and carers have a clear overview of what is being practised.

At KS4 we expect students to become more independent in readiness for their GCSE exams and beyond. Therefore, they will have a suite of resources for subject-specific independent practice, past papers and revision guides alongside assignments set by their teacher.

All Independent learning tasks will be set on Arbor by students’ class teacher.

Timetable

Subject	Year 7, 8, 9	Year 10, 11
Maths, English and Science	Once per week	Once per week
Geography	Once per fortnight	Once per fortnight
History	Once per fortnight	Once per fortnight
MFL	Once per fortnight	Once per week
Personal Development	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
RE	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
ICT	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
Music	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
Art	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
Drama	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
Technology	Once per half term	Once per fortnight
PE	Once per half term	Once per fortnight

 

Autumn Term

 

Independent Study Guide

Engagement with Independent Learning

Students who complete independent learning on time will be rewarded with excellence points on Arbor.

If your child repeatedly fails to engage with independent learning, your child's class teacher will be in touch to discuss how we can provide further support.

Independent study enables students to:

• consolidate and extend work covered in class or prepare for new learning activities
• access resources not available in the classroom
• develop research skills
• have an opportunity for independent work
• show progress and understanding
• provide feedback in the evaluation of teaching
• to enhance their study skills e.g. planning, time management and self-discipline
• to take ownership and responsibility for learning
• engage parental co-operation and support
• create channels for home school dialogue

Independent study can be:

• Independent learning
• Consolidation of work in class
• Practice – learning by doing
• Completion of coursework assignments
• Research
• Reading
• Interviews
• Drawing
• Using ICT
• Recording

 

Arbor Parent Portal & App