Homework Heroes

“Some of our kids don’t see older generations with a book and the classes offer the opportunity to mentor students, as well as tutor them. Our library also includes a computer, so students can do any research that is needed for their homework,” Jennell says.

“The homework classes have a flow on effect – our students are getting more confident in class.

“There is also a direct link between the after school classes and school attendance. This year our high attendance of 80 per cent and above was acknowledged during NAIDOC Week.”

The secret to getting students involved is making the learning fun. After school, students are given snacks and juices and either team up with a buddy for the sessions or work on their homework alone. If they haven’t got homework on a particular day they get involved in literacy and numeracy games.

“They play the ‘Numero’ card game where they add and take away numbers and literacy games where they need to recognise what sounds go with what letters,” Jennell says.

“We’ve got a team of AIOs where if the kids are lacking in an area, we can get them a bit more on target.

“One of our big advantages is that we have a bus to drop them off home after the classes, so they are not walking home in the dark.”

The after school program has been running for two years and is entirely self funded by the school, with help from the local Aboriginal Corporation and donations from the local IGA.

Around 20 students participate in the one hour homework groups which are held twice a week. There is a seniors group for students for Years 4 to 7 and a younger group for Years 1 to 3.

Nulsen Primary has a school population of 300 students and Jenell is confident the after school classes will continue well into the future.

“Our school is doing great – as soon as school finishes the kids turn straight up to homework class!”

The Purpose of this School is to develop in each student
•  the academic skills and knowledge
•  together with social and cultural awareness for
•    effective, responsible citizenship and
•    personal fulfillment.

We endeavor to promote
•  mutual respect
•  trust
•  dignity of the individual
•  honesty and
•  integrity in all activities
in order to develop the full potential of the school community.