Request for Review of Student Workload and Exam Scheduling

To: Department of Education
Subject: Request for Review of Student Workload and Exam Scheduling

We, the undersigned parents and guardians, are deeply concerned about the current academic structure in our schools. Throughout the school year, students face excessive workloads, including numerous projects, activities, and hours of homework after school. This leaves little time for rest, family interaction, or personal development.

At the end of each term, students rush to complete assignments and exams, only to finish weeks before the official school closing date. During this time, they are still required to attend school, often without textbooks or meaningful learning activities, resulting in wasted time and unnecessary stress.

Our concerns include:

• Overwhelming homework and project demands throughout the year.
• Exams scheduled too early, leaving weeks of idle time before holidays.
• Students returning textbooks immediately after exams, preventing further learning.
• Increased stress and mental health challenges among children.

We propose the following solutions:

1. Reduce Homework Load: Limit homework to essential reinforcement tasks and prioritize in-class learning.
2. Balanced Project Scheduling: Spread assignments evenly across the term to avoid last-minute pressure.
3. Revise Exam Timetable: Schedule exams closer to the official end of term to maintain engagement.
4. Post-Exam Activities: Introduce meaningful enrichment programs instead of idle time.
5. Textbook Return Policy: Allow students to keep textbooks until the last day of term.
6. Mental Health Consideration: Include wellness initiatives to support students during peak workload periods.

We believe these changes will create a healthier, more balanced learning environment for our children and reduce unnecessary stress for families.

Please join us in requesting the Department of Education to review and implement these changes for the benefit of all students.

Siobhan Coleman    Contact the author of the petition