Scottish Greens propose ending homework in primary schools

The Scottish Greens are proposing an end to homework in primary schools.

The proposal is part of a wider package of measures which will be unveiled at the party’s manifesto launch on Wednesday aimed at giving children more opportunity to play and socialise with friends after the pandemic.

According to a summary of research commissioned by the Greens, homework in primary school can have a harmful effect on learning rather than helping to improve attainment.

This is because it may put them off learning because of a lack of motivation to do further schoolwork outside of school.

Research has also suggested homework can worsen inequality as it disadvantages children whose home environment makes it difficult to complete.

Scottish Greens education spokesperson Ross Greer said: “Too often we see homework issued because that’s the way it's always been, so that's the way we expect it to be today.

“In reality, research has found that this often isn’t helping children’s learning and can in fact be deeply unhelpful.

“After a year full of remote working from home, the last thing children and families need once schools reopen is to bring even more work home.

“We know from research that this creates a negative association with school and learning from a young age.

“Moving on from a year of restrictions on meeting friends and playing together, we need to ensure that children are free to go outdoors and socialise, rather than stuck inside completing homework which isn’t actually helping them.

“This is no criticism of overworked teachers, who are regularly pressured to issue homework which only creates an additional workload burden for them.

“Ending homework in primary schools benefits everyone, pupil, family and teacher.”