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By Mrs Bansropun

INDEPENDENT STUDY

As we move through another vibrant and productive term with enrichment activities in abundance, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on an integral part of our students’ learning journey: Independent Study (AKA: Homework). In our busy lives, it can sometimes feel like an extra burden, but I want to share with you why Independent Study remains an invaluable tool in shaping the confident, capable, and curious learners we strive to develop.

At Honywood School, our approach to education is holistic, focusing not only on academic excellence but also on the development of essential life skills. Independent Study, when designed and engaged with thoughtfully, plays a crucial role in both these areas.

Firstly, Independent Study is a powerful reinforcement of classroom learning. Our teachers meticulously plan lessons to introduce new concepts and deepen understanding. However, the true mastery of a subject often comes through repeated engagement and independent application. Independent Study provides this vital opportunity, allowing students to consolidate what they’ve learned, practice new skills, and identify areas where they might need further clarification. This active recall and application significantly strengthens long-term memory and understanding, far beyond what can be achieved within the confines of the school day.

Secondly, and perhaps even more profoundly, Independent Study cultivates independent learning skills. In an ever-evolving world, the ability to learn autonomously, to research, problem-solve, and manage one’s time effectively, is paramount. Independent Study assignments, whether they

involve extended writing, research projects, or analytical tasks, empower students to take ownership of their learning. They learn to organise their thoughts, prioritise tasks, and persevere through challenges – all crucial attributes for success in further education and indeed, in life itself.

Consider the parallels with an athlete’s training. While coached sessions are vital, it’s the independent practice, the extra drills, and the self-reflection that truly hone their skills and build resilience - the likes of Mo Sala, Laura Kenny and Jessica Ennis-Hill didn’t just practice when they were told to - they lived and breathed practice; practice became habitual and ultimately led to their huge sucesses. Similarly, Independent Study provides that essential ‘outof-classroom’ practice, building academic muscle and mental fortitude which will be necessary for whatever steps they take in later life.

Furthermore, Independent Study fosters responsibility and self-discipline. When students are expected to complete tasks independently and to deadlines, they develop a sense of accountability for their own learning. This structured approach helps them to manage their time, prioritise tasks, and develop habits that will serve them well throughout their academic and professional lives. These are not merely academic skills; they are life skills that equip our young people to navigate the complexities of adulthood with greater confidence and competence.

We understand that finding the right balance is key. Our teachers are committed to setting meaningful and purposeful Independent Study that genuinely enhances learning, rather than simply creating busywork. We encourage you to support your child by providing a conducive environment for study,

Assistant Headteacher

discussing their Independent Study with them, and celebrating their efforts and achievements. This partnership between home and school is incredibly powerful in fostering a positive attitude towards learning.

Ultimately, Independent Study at Honywood is not about adding extra pressure; it is about extending the reach of learning, nurturing independent thought, and building the essential skills that will empower our students to thrive in an increasingly complex world. It is an investment in their future success.

Mia Overy (C7) who ran a 10k on Sunday in Langham. She was one of only two children taking part in the run, the rest were adults. A great achievement, well done Mia!

Hannah Cook (C7) who received a Managers player award this weekend for her Sunday team. Her manager presented the award and had the following to say:

Firstly I would like to start by celebrating the progress and achievements of this fantastic group of young players. Every single one of them has made strides this season …. But one players journey has been especially inspiring. The managers player of the season award goes to someone who has grown in ways that go far beyond football skills. At the start of the season, this player was quiet, always listening, but still finding her voice. And what a voice she has found. Week by week, I see her confidence grow. She started to speak up more, to encourage her teammates, and to play with a belief and presence that lifted the whole team. She’s become someone we can rely on, not just for her performance on the pitch, but for her attitude, her kindness, and her quiet leadership. This player has shown us what it means to grow, not just as a player, but as a person. You’ve stepped out of your shell, found your voice, and

become a vital part of the team. I’m so proud of how far you’ve come, and I know this is only the beginning of what you’re capable of. Thank you for everything you have brought to the team this season, let’s give this player a huge round of applause and a huge congratulations to the managers player 24/25 season Hannah Cook.

COHORT 8 FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

Team: Archie Peacham, Emmanuel Ojowa, Oliver Eastall ( Capt), Oscar Reece, Ronnie Bird (Goalkeeper), Kaebreyan Flaherty-Webb, Josh Milliken, Mohammed Malek, Josh Caulfield and. Noah Everitt

The team took part in a tournament organised by Braintree Police. There were ten school teams and the boys qualified for the quarter finals after playing four games. All four games were close but Honywood secured enough points after important goals scored by Ollie Eastall and Emmanuel Ojowa. There were some good performances by all the team with Mohammed Malek, Josh Milliken and Oscar Reece standing frim in defence ensuring few attempts at goal were made. This was helped by goalkeeper, Ronnie Bird, pulling off some good saves when needed. In attack, Josh Caulfield and Archie Peacham were always dangerous. In the quarter final the game was again close and the team battled hard but two late goals conceded by Honywood cost them the game. Well done lads.

Mr Walters

Well done to Toby Jagger (C9) for completing the 54 mile London to Brighton bike ride on Sunday. He did it on his mountain bike and showed great resilience. The ride was the final part of his physical section for D of E. He also raised £225 for the British Heart Foundation. Great job!

COLCHESTER INSTITUTE TASTER DAY

Our C10 learners who had all expressed an interest in vocational pathways (specifically at Colchester Institute) were able to attend the taster day on 16 June. There will be more opportunities for learners to discuss their Post 16 options during assemblies with Colchester Sxith Form and the Colchester Institute as well as our Parental Post 16 information evening on 1st July.

Thursday 19th June was the culmination of four workshops led by the London Musical Theatre Orchestra with our learners. Over the last four weeks, the learners have attended an hour-long workshop to learn a new skill - a musical instrument. The instruments were on loan from Essex Music Services for this project and they are able to keep them through to Christmas. The performance today was outstanding and what the learners have achieved in a short space of time was incredible. Well done to all of them for attending the workshops and for all the practice they did at home. A massive thank you to the team from LMTO for inspiring the next generation of musicians!