Curriculum

Maths

It is the aim of the mathematics department to enable all students, irrespective of background or ability, to achieve their full potential in mathematics. We want all students to leave with a qualification to help them succeed in the workplace, and for them to enjoy mathematics in its own right.

Our facilities include seven classrooms fitted with interactive whiteboards, a suite of 16 computers loaded with dynamic geometry and graphing software. Extensive use is made of these different learning mediums to enable all students to achieve their full potential.

From September 2007, students will be able to log on to e-folio to access full schemes of work, homework information, as well as useful mathematical resources to help them to prepare and achieve the best grade possible in their exams. We also subscribe to mymaths.co.uk, where children can logon at home, practice questions and play mathematical games to help them improve.

Key Stage 3

From Year 7 to 9, students following the Maths Frameworking scheme of work. Each year, children study at one of four different levels, with material targeted at their individual level. Homework is set twice weekly, using practice books which children are issued with at the beginning of the year. Towards the end of Year 9, children sit their National Curriculum Tests, which help us to determine which path they will follow for G.C.S.E.

Key Stage 4

We currently follow the AQA Modular Specification B G.C.S.E. for mathematics. Children either sit Higher Tier where they can achieve Grades A* to D, or Foundation Tier where they can achieve Grades G to C. In this way, all children have the opportunity to earn a Grade C at G.C.S.E.

For students beginning the course in 2007, there will be no coursework. Children will begin Module 1 (Data Handling) after their Year 9 exams, which they will be examined on in November. It will often be possible for children to retake modules if they wish to improve their final grade.

Key Stage 5

Mathematics A-level is a very highly valued qualification. It is held in high esteem by industry, commerce and higher education. Mathematics is rightly regarded as a demanding subject, and those who study it develop thinking and problem solving skills applicable in all fields.

It is possible to gain one and a half A-levels in mathematics. Taking an extra three modules, to make a total of nine, leads to the additional award of an AS in Further Mathematics.

Students who have gained a grade B at GCSE will have a good basis for studying A-level. In exceptional circumstances a grade C might be acceptable. Hard work is essential for success at A-level. All students must be prepared to experience difficulties and face up to the challenge that these present. Success is much more likely if the student enjoys and is interested in the subject.

Sixth formers taking mathematics follow the Edexcel modular specification. In Year 12, they study Core Mathematics (C1 and C2) and Statistics (S1) to earn the AS level. Those continuing to A-level study Core Mathematics (C3 and C4) and Mechanics (M1). For students studying further mathematics, additional modules are taken; Decision Mathematics (D1) is taken in Year 12, with Further Pure Mathematics (FP1) and Statistics (S2) in Year 13.