Clifton Grima has announced the launch of a new National Homework Policy aimed at giving students greater opportunities to benefit from their studies while developing independence and responsibility.

Speaking earlier today, the Minister for Education, Sport, Youth, Research and Innovation said the policy is designed to ensure that homework supports different learning styles without placing unnecessary pressure on children.

Under the new framework, homework will be structured into four main categories: practice, to reinforce what students learn in class; exploration, encouraging students to pursue topics of personal interest beyond the curriculum; application, allowing learners to apply knowledge to real-life situations; and integration, which connects multiple subjects.

The policy also introduces age-appropriate guidelines. Kindergarten children will not be assigned written homework but will instead engage in play-based and informal learning activities. In the early years, homework will be introduced gradually to build confidence and foundational skills. In the junior years, tasks will focus on investigation and creativity, while at middle and secondary levels, teachers will coordinate workloads to avoid excessive or unnecessary assignments.

The initiative follows extensive consultation with educators, students, parents and other stakeholders. It aims to promote student independence while ensuring support from both schools and families, with a focus on equal access to learning opportunities. The policy will be reviewed every four years to ensure it remains relevant, engaging and accessible.

He stressed that time for rest, family life, creativity, sport and community involvement remains essential for healthy development. A balanced approach to homework, he said, must support learning while safeguarding these important aspects of childhood and adolescence.