What do students study in Maths?

At Key Stage 3 students build on their Mathematical skills from Key Stage 2 in the following areas:

• Number
• Algebra
• Shape, Space and Measures
• Data Handling
• Using and Appling Mathematics.

At Key Stage 4, all students take a GCSE Maths course. This involves two written exam papers. There is no coursework element.

Students can also sit an extra GCSE in Statistics.  This is assessed by one written paper and one piece of coursework.

How many lessons of Maths do students get?

At both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students have three hours of Maths lessons a week.

What is the teaching like in Maths?

Students are taught in mixed attainment groups in Key Stage 3. At Key Stage 4 they are taught in groups set by levels of attainment.

We believe Maths is best studied in a variety of ways using a range of teaching techniques. Students explore topics with and without the aid of IT facilities. They discuss and write about Mathematics and they also increasingly make connections between the different aspects of Mathematics.

We believe that every student deserves to achieve their potential through access to an enjoyable and challenging Mathematics curriculum. Students become independent learners and have access to a curriculum which meets their needs, allowing them to achieve enjoyment and success.

Are there extra-curricular activities?

We run a Maths and ICT club at lunchtime each week for Key Stage 3 students. Students can play Mathematical games and puzzles and get help with their homework.

Many of our students take part in the annual Maths Challenge. These are lively, intriguing papers specifically designed to stimulate interest in Maths. They are tests of reasoning and mental agility. We have an excellent record in term of student success.

We also run a GCSE workshop every week after school to support students in preparing for their exams.

During Activities Week in July we organise trips to the Science and Natural History Museums. There are also Maths Trails where students use Maths to explore the local environment.

How well resourced is the Faculty?

We have six well equipped classrooms, all with Interactive Whiteboards. This helps us to increase the use of ICT in our teaching and learning.

Our rooms are also equipped with a range of visual and practical materials to provide a variety of approaches to learning. We use a range of materials including textbooks, SMILE and ICT resources.

How do I contact the Maths Faculty?

Please contact Mr Bruce, Head of Maths, at the school.
Contact details are here.