Mathematics

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The Mathematics Department aims to provide a stimulating, dynamic and academically rigorous experience for all our students. The Department encourages initiative, creativity and innovation which leads to very impressive student outcomes.

We are committed to fully developing the students’ confidence in their own abilities and strive to demonstrate that the subject is rich, challenging and enjoyable.

We aim to develop an atmosphere of work and interest within our classes and hence nurture the self-motivation of our students.

Students are encouraged to apply mathematical skills and knowledge to everyday, functional situations as well as showing initiative when solving problems. We encourage more able students to enter national competitions and value their participation and achievement.

Standards

Standards in the Mathematics Department are extremely high. GCSE results are well above the national average. 81% of students gained A*-C grades in 2012 which is significantly above the national average.

Standards at AS and A-Level are equally high, with the Department regularly exceeding its targets.

Accommodation, Resourcing and Facilities

There are nine specialist Mathematics teachers along with 2 departmental teaching assistants. The Department is housed in seven classrooms, all equipped with interactive whiteboards. Two rooms have suites of computers and the Department also has two sets of laptops. The Department has an impressive and growing range of ICT resources.

Curriculum

Key Stage 3: Students are set by ability and follow the National Curriculum. Students have 7 one hour lessons per fortnight in Year 7 and 6 one hour lessons per fortnight in Years 8 and 9.

We assess: algebra; numbers and the number system; calculating; using and applying mathematics; shape, space and measures; handling data. Students are assessed regularly.

Key Stage 4: At GCSE, we follow the EDEXCEL specification. Students have 6 hourly lessons per fortnight and, building upon the success of previous years, sit the linear examination early. Typically this will be in the November of Year 11. Students will then study GCSE Statistics or Further Mathematics with some also aiming to improve upon their Maths GCSE grade in the summer.

Key Stage 5: AS and A Level Mathematics are extremely popular with students. Currently there are three large groups at AS and A-Level and we anticipate that this number will rise. We follow the OCR (MEI) course, ensuring that stretch and challenge is embedded throughout. AS and A Level Further Mathematics is becoming increasingly more popular.

Extra-curricular provision: The Department offers a range of enrichment activities. Currently we offer examination revision classes, national mathematical challenges, and KS2 activity days, run with our partner junior schools. The Maths Department is also fully involved in the school’s programme of Flexible Learning Days.