completing homework -- but it is unique in that homework is done at school.

Berkeley Institute's After School Study Programme began on October 5 and already includes more than a third of the student body.

Programme director Keisha Douglas said the school has dedicated an hour of quiet time four days a week to assist students in completing homework and extra study.

She said: "For many students, doing homework and studying exams are exceedingly difficult tasks and getting started seems like an insurmountable obstacle.'' Ms Douglas added the programme is ideal for students who are resistant to doing homework, or are at a loss at where to start.

Some students may simply need to improve their study habits or may need some point clarified while the problem is still fresh in their minds.

Supervised by teachers and student leaders, the cost is $5 per student per day and once signed up 100 percent attendance is expected.

For some students attendance is mandatory.

This week The Royal Gazette spoke to Berkeley teacher Tiannia Lowe and several students about the programme.

Ms Lowe said: "It's definitely a good thing. It forces them to have discipline.'' She added: "Although they may not have homework per se, they may have to review their work.'' And 14-year-old Latroy Santucci said she attends the programme every day and does homework and review.

With an open English Language textbook open before her, Latroy, of Warwick, said she appreciates having a student leader or prefect in the classroom.

Che Edmead, 13, said the programme had improved his work habits and said he had found it easier than working at home.

Che, of Hamilton Parish, added: "It means now I can do my homework early and have more time to do other things I want to do.'' Student leader Desta Ascento, 16, said she supervised the younger student's work habits and checks their homework.

"I help out in any way I can,'' she said. "I wish I would have had it because I would not have been coming to school unprepared.'' Lino Nanud, of Paget, said he prefers the after school programme because "I can do all my homework here and then go home and watch TV'' before adding he also does housework.

Lino continued: "I also like it because I accomplish something when I'm here.''