Homework

Homework can feel like a drag, but it is an important part of being at school, college or university.

Learning to work on your own is good training for your schoolwork and it gets you into good habits which will help you to be successful at school and in a future career.

It can, however, cause anxiety, especially if you are struggling with a particular subject. Try not to worry, it's normal to feel confused sometimes, it's all part of learning.

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Need More Help? Mental Health Advice & Support

Our Experiences

By young people, for young people

"I had a bad experience with homework at high school and, looking back, I wish I had spoken up more and got more help.

I have autistic brothers and have to help my mum out at home with tasks like cleaning and fixing things. My school were told about this, but I still had to do a lot of homework and I struggled.

I wish now I had spoken up more about how difficult I found it, because I think I should have received more support from school.

My advice is to be confident enough to speak out if you are struggling and to make sure you get the help you need."

Joshua, Age 14

(Some names changed to protect people's identities)

All You Need to Know

Don't be afraid to ask for help.

Speak to your teacher - they might be able to explain things more clearly, or to give you some extra help with the work.

If you have an older brother or sister who might have done the same work, ask them for help. Working together with a friend can also be useful.

Ask your parents or carers - even if they can't help you with the work, they will be able to speak to someone at your school and help you get some extra support.

You might be able to find the information you need online - but make sure it is a trusted source. Your teacher will be able to tell you if a website is okay to use.
Your teachers don't want you to spend all night doing your homework, but they do want to see that you've made an effort to do it properly.

If you've spent a reasonable amount of time on a piece of work but you're still struggling with it, then stop. Make a note on your work to explain that you have run out of time, but that you have tried your best.

You should also talk to your teacher and explain that your homework is taking too long - they may be able to give you some tips, or help you if there is a particular subject you are struggling with.
The point of homework is to help teachers know what you understand, so always produce your own work.

Research is fine, but don't just copy information from websites and books - prove you understand the topic by using your own words. If you need to do some online research, always use trusted websites, such as BBC Bitesize, which will give you the right information.

Getting help from friends is also fine, but never copy their work - remember your teachers want to mark your work, not someone else's.
It's not easy. There are other things you would probably rather be doing at home and you might be tired after a day at school.

You can help yourself to stay focused and keep your brain alert by eating healthily and doing plenty of exercise.

If you're getting distracted by your phone, tablet or games console, take them out of the room until you've done your homework. You could think of them as a reward for when you've finished your work.

Read more about healthy eating

Read more about exercise

Homework Top Tips

Plan ahead - think about how you're going to fit homework in alongside everything else you have to do in the coming week.
Take regular breaks to keep your mind fresh - you could work for 30 minutes and then take a 10-minute break to do some exercise or spend some time outside.
Get rid of distractions - put your phone away and turn the TV off.
If you are having trouble with revision, think about what has worked well for you before when you have had exams. Speak to friends and relatives to find out any methods they use.

Stick to your homework plan as much as possible, but be flexible - things sometimes happen which mean you have to adapt.
Use a mind map (see link below) to remember important information and make sense of a complicated topic.
If you're struggling with homework, speak to your teacher or your parents or carers for help.

How to create a mind map

Who Can Help?

You can talk to your parents or carers, or a trusted adult within your school or setting, or any trusted friend.

If you live in Norfolk:

If you're 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for anonymous and confidential advice from a health professional. ChatHealth is available Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm.

You can also contact the Norfolk Healthy Child Programme by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.

If you live in Waveney:

You can call the Suffolk School Nursing service on 0345 607 8866 or email childrenshealth@suffolk.gov.uk.

Student Space is run by Student Minds, the student mental health charity. They offer university students information and advice, help to find what support is available at your university and support services for students.

Childline - if you're under 19, you can call 0800 1111 for free support.

Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support 7 days a week until 10pm.