► Why do we need to do homework when we already spend all day in school? – Grace, aged nine, Belfast

If you’ve ever stared at your homework feeling stuck, you’re not alone. Many children say it makes them feel stressed, bored, or even anxious. Why do teachers keep giving you work to do at home when you’ve already spent hours learning at school?

The available research suggests that for secondary school students, well-designed homework can lead to about five extra months of progress in subjects like maths and English. In primary school, the impact is smaller – around three months – but still useful.

Homework helps you practise what you’ve learned, remember it better and build skills like time management and independence.

However, research shows that how you feel about homework de

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