Independent Study and Wider Learning

At HASU6, we know that success at A level depends not only on what happens in the classroom but also on the study habits and independent learning skills students develop beyond it. Our programme of homework, guided independent study and wider learning prepares students for life after sixth form, whether at university, in training or in the workplace.

The 5/5 Rule

We follow a simple principle at HASU6: for every five hours of lessons, students should complete five hours of independent work per subject, per week. This balance ensures that students consolidate their learning, practise key skills and extend their knowledge beyond the classroom.

Homework and Guided Independent Study

Students are expected to complete around four to five hours of independent work per subject, per week, in line with the 5/5 rule. This may take place at home or during free periods in the Sixth Form Study Base, where a purposeful and supportive study environment is maintained.

Tasks are set on Microsoft Teams and may involve:

Reviewing and consolidating prior learning
Preparing for upcoming lessons
Applying knowledge through practice tasks
Undertaking wider research or extension activities

Guided Independent Study (GIS) periods are built into the timetable. These give students the opportunity to plan their own time and develop effective study routines. Students who consistently meet expectations can earn the privilege of studying off-site during GIS, reflecting the independence expected at the next stage of their education.

Wider Learning

Alongside homework, students are expected to spend at least one hour per subject, per week engaging in wider learning. This includes wider reading, exploring academic journals, listening to subject-specific podcasts, or engaging with enrichment opportunities through societies and super-curricular activities.

Teachers provide students with a Wider Learning Handbook, full of recommended resources to inspire curiosity and encourage independent exploration. Students evidence their work in Wider Learning Logs, which tutors review weekly to ensure steady progress.

Preparing for the Future

This structured approach helps students to:

Develop independence and resilience
Build strong organisational and time-management skills
Explore subjects in greater depth
Prepare for the demands of higher education and future careers

Independent study and wider learning are at the heart of HASU6’s approach: equipping students with the skills, habits and confidence they need to thrive in the next stage of their journey.