Independent Learning @ TGS

Welcome to our Secondary Independent Learning Hub

providing easy access for students and parents to ILTs set by subject teachers

Student FAQs

What is Independent Learning?

Independent Learning is the name we use at The Gatwick School for work that students complete either at home or during Supervised Independent Learning (SIL) before school each day. Independent Learning can refer to learning that students choose to do for themselves, as well as tasks specified by teachers (known as ILTs).

What do Independent Learning Tasks consist of?

That depends on the subject. For example, Maths requires weekly completion of Sparx Maths online. Modern Foreign Languages expects every student to complete 15 minutes (Years 7–9) or 20 minutes (Years 10–11) of vocabulary consolidation or learning PRQs (Personal Response Questions) between every lesson. Other subjects may assign longer tasks, such as extended reading or writing, research, projects or presentations, or creating a piece of art, music, or design.

How do I know that I have Independent Learning Tasks to do?

Teachers inform students during lessons and then post the task on an ILT slide, which is linked to both Google Classroom and this Independent Learning Hub. Students should also write a reminder in their planner.  Parents can also check this Independent Learning Hub. 

How much independent learning is expected each week per subject?

For KS3 students (Years 7–9), the maximum is 60 minutes per subject per week. For KS4 students (Years 10–11), the maximum is 90 minutes for core subjects (English, Maths, and Science). MFL, Geography, and History: 30 to 45 minutes for KS3; up to 60 minutes for KS4. Other KS3 subjects: less frequent, depending on their nature and the number of timetabled lessons per week. All GCSE option subjects require 60 minutes per week. The maximum amount per subject is listed at the bottom of each ILT slide.

What if I cannot get an ILT done by the date set or I am having difficulties? 

There are several valid reasons why a student may be unable to complete an ILT by the deadline. This may include illness, family circumstances, or school or outside events. Teachers aim to set reasonable deadlines and will be understanding in such cases. If you need more time or support to complete a task, please let your subject teacher know.

I been allocated 'catch-up'. What does this mean?

If a student, for whatever reason, has not completed an ILT, the teacher concerned may require them to attend a catch-up session—either on Monday or Thursday after school from 3:35 to 4:05 pm. This is not a sanction, but rather an opportunity to catch up on any work that has not been completed. However, failure to attend will result in a sanction issued through the system on Arbor.

I would like to attend Supervised Learning before school each morning. How can I sign up for this?

Parents should use the Google sign-up form sent out at the beginning of each year. After this, it is also possible to be added to the SIL register if parents contact Mr Walker-Smith. Doors open for SIL at 8:00 am each day, and students are expected to arrive either then or no later than 8:15 am. You must sign in electronically at Secondary Reception, clicking on “Other” and then typing in “SIL”. You should then make your way directly to classroom BU7, where you will be supervised by a member of staff on duty.  Students should be aware that they must work as if they were in a library—either on their Independent Learning Tasks or reading a book. Socialising, games, eating or use of mobile phones is not permitted in SIL.

I do not have access to Google Classrooms for all the subjects I study. What should I do?

Teachers should  provide the unique class code for each group they teach at the beginning of each academic year for students who are not already members of the relevant group. If you do not have a class code, you should ask your subject teacher for it. Students should then click +, 'join class' and enter the code. If there are any technical difficulties, please see Mr Walker-Smith.

Message to parents/carers 

Thank you to all parents and carers for supporting the Independent Learning Tasks set for your children.

We know that independent learning can make a real difference to helping them achieve their full potential and the successful outcomes we wish for all students at The Gatwick School.

You can find out exactly what ILTs have been set for any class by clicking on the relevant Year group tab on this MicroSite. All subjects are presented in alphabetical order.

If you have subject-specific queries, please contact the relevant teacher directly. Their email address can be found at the bottom of each ILT slide. For more general questions, you are welcome to email me at: dwalker-smith@thegatwickschool.org.uk.

David Walker-Smith

Assistant Headteacher