Maths
Maths Department Curriculum Intent
To develop logical problem solvers who creatively use their mathematical skills and recognise the power of mathematics in everyday life.
Staff
- Mrs E Davison (Head of Department)
- Mrs E Wallace (2nd in Department)
- Mrs E Donnelly
- Mrs J Lutton
- Mr S Blades
- Mrs Z Pegler
- Mrs E Numa
Resources
The department has a suite of six large classrooms and one further small classroom; all rooms have projectors and large whiteboards.
There are 32 laptop computers available for student use.
Every student has access to an online version of the main curriculum text book which is used in the classroom; a variety of other additional texts are available within the department.
Curriculum
We operate setting throughout the majority of the year groups. Years 8 to 11 are in sets within two teaching bands in each year group and Year 7 are taught in mixed ability teaching groups. At the end of year 7 we use the data collected throughout the year to make initial group allocations for year 8. All sets are reviewed on a regular basis to ensure that students are correctly placed.
Key Stage 3
Pupils are taught the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum content. Students follow a common department scheme of work based on the new Elmwood Press KS3 books.
Key Stage 4
Set 1 complete their GCSE studies at the end of Year 10 and study a higher level of Mathematics in Year 11; this is currently the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics. All other sets complete their two year linear course in Year 11.
Students are following the new reformed Key Stage 4 curriculum and take examinations with the AQA examination board.
Key Stage 5
We follow the Edexcel examination board specifications.
For A Level Maths, students study compulsory units in pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics.
For Further Maths, students study compulsory units in pure mathematics along with the additional optional units of further statistics and further mechanics.
For students not studying A Level Mathematics, we also offer the ‘Core Maths’ qualification as a Sixth Form enrichment subject leading to AQA’s Level 3 Certificate in Mathematical Studies.
Enrichment
Students enter for all levels of the UKMT Maths challenges.
Year 10 students participate in Maths Enrichment days organised by the FMSP.
Students from Years 11 to 13 have the opportunity to attend Maths Inspiration lectures and a variety of other lectures run by the Further Maths Support Network.