Mathematics

Department Ethos

Mathematics is essential for everyday life and understanding our world; it is important to ensure that all pupils have the best possible mathematics education. We want pupils to be engaged, challenged, successful and have a curiosity and enjoyment of mathematics. Pupils will build in confidence and be continually challenged to ensure they reach their full potential. We aim to equip pupils with the numeracy and problem solving skills they need to help them become independent learners, ready to tackle the real world.

“It’s not that I’m so smart, It’s that I stay with problems longer.” – Albert Einstein

Learn more about Mathematics at Key Stage 3

In Years 7, 8 & 9 pupils receive three one-hour lessons per week of Mathematics. In Year 7, pupils are taught in mixed ability groups to begin with and following an assessment early in the year they are set by ability in two bands. In Year 8 and Year 9 the pupils are set by ability in two bands. In addition, we offer Maths Homework Club after school. Pupils have access to a number of subscription websites such as Mathswatch and Manga High.

They are assessed at the end of each topic with formal feedback given on the topic so they can track their progress. Pupils are also formally assessed three times a year.

Learn more about Mathematics at Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4 pupils receive four one-hour Mathematics lessons per week. All will follow the GCSE Edexcel course, taking three terminal exam papers (one non-calculator paper and two calculator papers). The Most Able can also be entered for either Further Maths (Level 2) and/or the Additional Maths qualification (FSMQ – Level 3).

Key Stage 4 pupils are offered further Maths support either after school or at lunch times. In Year 11 there are weekly revision classes after school on Wednesdays. Pupils have access to a number of subscription websites including www.vle.mathswatch.co.uk.