One of the most common questions we receive from parents is: “What is your homework policy?” In a world where many primary school children spend up to two hours a night on homework, our answer often surprises people.
At Knights Preparatory School, we have a different view. We believe that homework should be purposeful, manageable and meaningful – not overwhelming. Research and experience both tell us that long hours of homework at a young age do not necessarily lead to better academic outcomes. In fact, they can lead to fatigue, frustration and a loss of love for learning.
Our approach is simple: quality over quantity.
If less homework sounds like less learning, it’s worth taking a closer look.
At Knights, we have found that when homework is reduced and refined, something powerful happens: children begin to enjoy the process of learning again – with no excessive after-school demands. When this happens, students return to the classroom more rested, more focused and more ready to engage. This creates space for deeper, more meaningful learning during the school day – where it matters most. Teachers are able to spend time ensuring that concepts are understood, not just covered. Questions are encouraged, thinking is stretched and mistakes are seen as part of the journey.
When teachers can guide learning during the day (instead of chasing homework completion), relationships strengthen. Students feel supported – and that safety is what allows risk-taking.
Beyond the classroom, this balance allows children to rediscover the joy of being children. Reading for pleasure, imaginative play, sport and family time all contribute to a child’s development. These experiences build curiosity, imagination and build social confidence – qualities that no worksheet can fully teach.
Most importantly, our approach also helps children develop a healthy relationship with learning. They begin to see homework not as a task to complete begrudgingly, but as something to enjoy. Our homework policy isn’t about endless tasks, but about supporting learning in a way that encourages reflection and consolidation. It gives students a sense of empowerment and agency – all in a few powerful minutes. In this way, our students leave the day inspired and ready to take on tomorrow.
What kind of learning experience do we want to create for our children in school or at home: one that drains them, or one that lights a fire inside them?
