After my rant back in September, I think most people know my stance on homework, particularly in primary school – ban it.

Now, a teacher friend of mine has started a petition on Number10.gov.uk to stop schools giving out excessive formal homework.

As a qualified teacher of more than 30 years’ experience, I see children being loaded down more and more with multiple subjects of homework every night of the week and weekends. I am very concerned about the effect it has on them.

At the end of the school day, children should pursue other interests; Brownies, Cubs, Guides, Scouts, learning an instrument, sports, voluntary work, youth clubs, gardening etc. Those with talents need time to hone these lifetime skills.

Time spent with family is limited enough as it is. Time together to sit down for a family meal once a day used to be the norm. Now if they can have one meal a week sitting together around a table, they are doing well and homework is a major divisive factor in family evening life.

The musicians, writers, artists etc of our future should be learning these skills in their spare time. Excessive homework as a concept is out-dated, unnecessary and the last resort of teachers who fail to cover the curriculum in class time. We urge you to have OFSTED examine the practice urgently.

I know many of you expressed similar homework annoyances at the time (it’s something that seems to get a lot of parents riled!) Could I ask that if you have similar feelings and are a UK taxpayer that you spare a couple of minutes to sign it yourself and/or pass the link on to other people you think might be interested? It would be really good if this could get some attention. Thanks.