Homework
Miltoncross Academy is always looking at ways to improve so that your child receives the best standard of education.
Research from the Education Endowment Foundation shows that ‘the impact of homework on learning is consistently positive (leading to on average five months’ additional progress)’.
Homework should either help students remember knowledge taught or it should give them an opportunity to apply knowledge that has been taught before. Therefore the majority of homework will be set using an online homework platform called Sparx. Linked below are the three platforms per our Core Subjects: Reading (English), Maths, and Science. Alternatively, departments may set quizzes using a Google form to secure knowledge from their Knowledge Organisers (all of which are on our website).
Some practical subjects will have half termly projects that will be due in the penultimate week of each term.
In order to streamline the process, we have assigned specific days of the week that homework will be set. We would recommend students complete the homework on the night that it is set in order that they do not fall behind, but we do also recognise that this will not always be possible. A two week deadline for homework will be set.
Catch up will be set for students who fail to hand in their homework. In addition, we have also set time limits on the amount of homework set which should allow students to plan their time accordingly.
Homework Sites & Useful Links
MX Mastery
We’re excited to introduce a new homework programme for students in Years 7 to 10 called MX Mastery. This initiative is designed to help students build strong foundations in their subjects and prepare effectively for their mid-year assessments on Friday 8th December.
Each student will receive an MX Mastery booklet containing weekly questions and answers that focus on key knowledge from their curriculum. These questions are carefully selected to support memory recall and reinforce learning through regular practice. MX Mastery is based on the principle of retrieval practice, a proven learning strategy that helps students retain information by actively recalling it over time. This approach strengthens memory and boosts confidence, especially when preparing for exams.
How can you support your child?
Your encouragement and involvement can make a big difference. Here are some simple ways to help your child get the most out of MX Mastery:
- Establish a Weekly Routine Set aside a regular time each week for your child to complete their MX Mastery questions. A quiet space and consistent schedule can improve focus and motivation.
- Use the Booklet to Quiz Them Ask your child questions from the booklet and encourage them to answer without looking. This helps simulate exam conditions and strengthens recall.
- Cover, Recall, Check Encourage your child to read the answers, cover them, and then try to recall them from memory. Checking afterwards helps identify areas that need more practice.
- Make It Interactive Turn questions into flashcards or use apps like Quizlet to make revision more engaging. Some students benefit from visual aids or group study sessions.
- Celebrate Effort and Progress Praise your child’s commitment and improvement. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages a growth mindset.
MX Mastery Documents