Tutor and Homework Diary

Each pupil, from Years 5 to11 (ages 9 to16), carries a homework diary and records in it details of homework tasks set.

Homework

Homework is set to complement and consolidate work done in class and to allow pupils to work at their own pace. In the youngest classes, pupils may be asked to complete a reading task which may involve parents. For older classes, homework gives pupils practice in managing their own learning, fulfilling targets and meeting deadlines. For IGCSE and A level classes, homework plays an essential role in developing the kind of study habits and self discipline necessary for examination success, and indeed academic achievement beyond school.

Examinations and Testing

Testing goes on in class throughout the year to enable teachers to assess progress, monitor learning and direct teaching. In the Primary School all children are assessed using the English National Curriculum guidelines. In Years 2 and 6, we follow the SATs assessment procedure which is used in the UK Pupils in Year 7 and Year 10 take cognitive ability tests which help teachers to identify strengths, diagnose problems and set relevant targets for examination success. Years 7 to 9 have yearly exams to give a focus to their studying and to gradually prepare them for the external exams they will be taking in Years 10 to13. Pupils in Year 9 take the ‘Checkpoint’ diagnostic tests set by Cambridge International Examinations board to record their level of achievement in English Language, Mathematics and the three Sciences. Pupils on IGCSE, GCSE and A level courses have mock examinations during each year of their course.

Reports

Full reports to parents, completed by subject teachers, the tutor, the Head of Section and the Head of School are sent out twice a year to keep parents regularly informed of their children’s progress. Staff are happy to write additional reports if requested by the parents.

Parents’ Evenings

Regular parents’ evenings, in which parents can discuss the progress of their children directly with their teachers, are also held each term. Of course, parents are welcome to make appointments to see form tutors or subject teachers at any time.

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