Mathematics

Key Stage 3

In Key Stage 3, students will develop their algebraic and numerical processing skills, using written and mental methods. We aim to progress student’s reasoning skills and their ability to break down complex problems into simpler parts and explain their methods in arriving at a solution. At Key Stage 3 they will have 4 lessons a week.

Assessment

The students will be assessed formally each term, with small, class assessments throughout the year.

Home Learning

Home learning is set once a week and could be a pre-lesson learning task or consolidation. This may be written Home Learning or one set from an online resource websites.

Key Stage 4

In Key Stage 4, students will continue to develop their reasoning skills to tackle increasingly complex mathematical problems. In Year 10 students have 4 lessons a week. In Year 11 students have 5 lessons a week. Students follow the Edexcel specification for GCSE Maths.

Assessment

The students will be assessed formally each term, with small, class assessments throughout the year.

Home Learning

Home learning is set once a week and could be a pre-lesson learning task or consolidation. This may be written Home Learning or one set from an online resource websites.

Key Stage 5

In Key Stage 5, students are introduced to calculus and more complex trigonometric and geometrical problems. They will develop further their ability to communicate mathematically using algebra. Students will learn how to develop mathematical models and use them to assess solutions to problems and make predictions. ‘A’ level mathematics is a much valued qualification which provides support in the learning of a variety of other subjects.

Further Mathematics is designed for students with an enthusiasm for Maths, many of whom will go on to degrees in Mathematics, Engineering, the Sciences or Economics. The qualification is both deeper and broader than ‘A’ level Mathematics. It can only be studied as an addition to ‘A’ level Mathematics.

Students follow the Edexcel specifications for ‘A’ level Maths and Further Maths.

Assessment

The students will be assessed formally each half term, with small, class assessments throughout the year.

Home Learning

Home Learning will be set at appropriate junctures throughout the year. Students are expected to complete exercises that have been set in class in their free study time.

Extra-curricular enrichment

A Maths enrichment club meets each week to enable students of all ages to work on extended projects, play mathematical games and solve mathematical problems and puzzles.

Stretch & Challenge

Students who show an interest in, and aptitude for, Mathematics are entered in the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust Maths Challenges at the appropriate level each year. This is a national competition in which the top performers are awarded Bronze, Silver and Gold certificates and the highest scorers qualify for additional follow-on rounds. A number of students in each year group are selected to represent the school in team Mathematics competitions.

Within Key Stage 4, students have the opportunity to take a Level 2 qualification in Further Maths.

Where can Maths take you?

Mathematics is a much valued qualification and can lead to a career in Engineering, Science, Technology, financial services and Accountancy.

How parents can support their child’s learning?

Encourage your child to complete their home learning, which will be set every week. Your child should review the work done in lessons using their exercise books or by using one of the websites below

Useful links