Homework Policy A homework policy was agreed in consultaion with staff and parents. We recognise the value of homework, in developing good study habits and acting as a means of communication between home and school. We also consider, however, that children who have worked hard in school, need to relax and pursue other interests. With this in mind, homework in the early stages should not exceed 15 -20 minutes, and may be around 30 minutes for senior pupils. We would stress the value of parents spending time talking, playing games, reading books and sharing outings with their children. Each pupil has a reading notebook in which parents are welcome to comment. At the P3 - P7 stages, pupils have an A4 polythene bag and a homework diary/ notebook in which to keep a record of homework tasks. Children will have a reading task each evening and spelling words to practice twice a week on average. A regular maths task is set. Sometimes the tasks will consolidate work being done in class, for example, learning multiplication table, a practicle measurement exercise or a spelling pattern. Often pupils will be asked to carry out some research, for example, to find information needed for a class survey or project. The latter might involve the use of reference books or library skills. The children will note their current project topic in their notebooks for parents' information. All parents are invited to school in early September to meet the class teacher and hear about the curriculum for that year. In November, parents are invited to visit the school to discuss their child's progress with the class teacher. A further opportunity for parent/teacher consultation is given after the issue of the written reports in the summer term. Written reports are issued annually, usually in May, indicating the pupil's progress during the school session and pointing out any particular strengths or development needs. School Uniform Parents and pupils voted in session 2004/05 to aim for 100% wearing of uniform Monday to Thursday. Friday is 'dress down' day, unless children are going on a school trip, when uniform will be required. Parents and pupils can of course choose uniform on Fridays. School Uniform, consists of black blazer, grey or black trousers/skirt/pinifore, white polo shirt, or white shirts/blouses and red or black sweatshirts. Black and yellow striped ties and school blazer badges may be purchased at "Baggins" 18 Deanhaugh Street. P6 pupils design a special sweatshirt to wear in P7. No football shirts, scarves etc. may be worn to school. All clothing should be named, please.
