Mathematics

General

Mathematics has a crucial role both within school and the wider world. The skills and concepts that students learn in Mathematics are important both for students' life skills and as the underpinning of several key subjects, particularly the sciences and ICT. Recognising this, the Mathematics department works towards two key goals – to enable students to develop the mathematical understanding they will need to succeed in their lives outside of school; and to assist students in improving their ability to strategise, analyse and solve problems. 

Key Stage 3

The curriculum for the lower school is built around the National Curriculum for Mathematics; the four main bodies of Maths are Number, Algebra, Shape and Data Handling. In each year students study various topics from within each of these areas.

Students are set on entry into year 7 based upon their KS2 assessments from primary school. Students will immediately start building upon their prior knowledge from Key Stage 2. As a student progresses through the years, they will build upon their developing knowledge as well be introduced to new topics and concepts.

Regular termly assessments and teacher assessments ensure that each individual student is in a group which works at a level and pace suitable to their ability.

Towards the end of term 4 in year 9, all students sit a SATs style end-of-Key Stage 3 test. After Easter of year 9, all students start their GCSE studies.

Key Stage 4

Course title: GCSE Mathematics

Exam Board: AQA

Students will work towards a linear examination at the end of year 10. This means that all topics are tested over two papers, one calculator and one non-calculator. They will be entered at either Higher tier (grades A* to D) or Foundation tier (grades C to G) dependent upon ability.

As with Key Stage 3, there will be some new topics and concepts as well those which build further upon existing knowledge. Once again, rigorous testing ensures students are clear about their progress and what they need to do to progress further.

Dependent upon results at the end of year 10, students can follow a number of pathways in year 11 that are designed to allow them to maximise their potential. This includes ‘Free Standing Maths Qualifications’ which provide a level 3 qualification and successful foundation entry students being given the chance to extend themselves at higher tier. 

Key Stage 5

Students can study Mathematics as part of the IB qualification or as a separate component of a mixed courses pathway.

There are three levels of entry: Higher (the equivalent of ‘A’ level Further Mathematics and Mathematics), Standard (‘A’ level Mathematics), and Studies (slightly more demanding than ‘AS’ Mathematics). Entry to these pathways is dependent upon GCSE result and level of entry.

There will be significantly more new topics at all three levels including calculus.