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Supporting Learning at Home
There are lots of simple ways parents and carers can support children’s learning at home. Small, consistent habits can make a real difference to children’s organisation, confidence and progress.
Encourage children to use their planner
Encourage your child to check their planner regularly and make a note of homework, deadlines and important reminders. This helps them take responsibility for their learning and develop good organisational habits.
Pack their bag the night before
Encourage children to check their timetable and pack their bag ready for the next day. They should make sure they have the equipment they need, including pens, pencils, ruler and any subject-specific items. All students were also given a mini-whiteboard pack at the start of the year, which they should keep in their bag and bring to school each day.
Create a quiet space for homework
Where possible, provide a calm space where your child can focus without too many distractions. It doesn’t need to be a dedicated study area - a quiet space at the kitchen table can work just as well.
Establish good routines
A regular time for homework can help children know what is expected and avoid leaving work until the last minute. It can also be helpful to build in short breaks, particularly for longer tasks.
Manage distractions and screen time
Phones, tablets and gaming can make it harder to concentrate. During homework time, encourage children to put their phone away or switch off notifications so they can focus on the task in front of them. Agreeing clear routines around when screens can be used can also help children develop healthy habits.
Ask about their learning
Instead of simply asking, “Have you done your homework?”, try asking what they have been learning about. Questions such as “What did you find interesting today?” or “Can you teach me something you learnt?” can encourage children to talk about their learning and reinforce what they have learnt.
Most importantly, show an interest in what your child is learning. A few minutes of conversation, encouragement and support each day can help children feel positive and confident about their education.
European Week of Languages
At a time when stories of hatred, segregation and racism can make it feel as though our culturally rich continent is being pulled apart, our small community at Barnhill has once again reminded us of what brings us together: languages, culture and curiosity about one another.
Our staff have shared their experiences of living and learning abroad. Our Year 13 students have spoken in assemblies about what learning languages means to them. And our Sixth Form students have shown remarkable creativity and leadership in organising the second edition of our Language Fair.
Ms Aguilera, Curriculum Leader of MFL said ‘as a European and a foreigner, like many others in our community, I feel proud to be part of a school that does not simply talk about diversity, but celebrates it. Because sometimes, in a world that seems determined to remind us of what separates us, learning another language is a small but powerful way of saying: I want to understand you.’
Key Dates
Parent Information Evenings
· Y11 – Wednesday 30th September
Sixth Form Open Evening- Thursday 8th October
There will be no period 6 lessons on this day so school will finish at 14:40 (Y7) and 15:00 for the rest of the school. The event is open to our current Y11 students as well students from all other schools who may be considering sixth form for their next steps. Students are expected to attend in business attire and be accompanied by a parent.
Parent Governor
The vacancy for a parent Governor has now been filled. Mrs P Midhas will become part of our Governing body.
Community
Please do check the Hillingdon website for details and information on activities and initiatives in the local area Youth Offer – Hillingdon Council
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