A high-quality mathematics education provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason logically, an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. With our curriculum, we aim to develop fluency, mathematical reasoning, multiplicative reasoning, problem solving, progression, modelling, reflection, relevance and linking, which are fundamental building blocks for developing resilience, leadership and responsibility.  Mathematical knowledge and understanding is a fundamental skill for a wide range of subjects and for use in daily life. Our overall curriculum intent is to develop depth of knowledge in maths, richness of experience and development of character.

Years 7 and 8 – the aim is to build confidence by teaching the content in a logical order. This will inspire curiosity and enjoyment in Mathematics while also introducing our students to the rigour that will be required at GCSE. We also offer students the opportunity to widen their experience of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and financial studies through some of the functional maths lessons.

Years 9 to 11 – the curriculum aims to prepare students for academic success at GCSE and also to provide a wide range of transferable skills for further education, employment and independence. Students are also given the opportunity to study an additional qualification (FSMQ, OCR) to further prepare them for Key Stage 5.

Year 12 to 13

A Level Mathematics

Mathematics at A Level consists of modules in Pure Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics. Pure Mathematics includes the study of calculus, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, algebra and polynomials. Statistics looks at the representation of data, probability, discrete random variables, bivariate data and hypothesis testing. Mechanics looks at forces, equilibrium of a particle, kinematics of motion in a straight line and Newton’s laws of motion.

A Level Further Maths

In AS Further Mathematics, students study one module of Core Pure Mathematics, one module of Further Mechanics/Further statistics and Decision mathematics. Core Pure Mathematics involves the study of series, mathematical induction, roots of polynomial equations, complex numbers and matrices. Mechanics is the study of forces, motion in a straight line, in a circle and of a projectile, linear momentum, centres of mass and energy, work and power. Decision Mathematics involves linear programming, networks, graph theory and algorithms.

At A2, three additional modules are chosen from two Core Pure modules, two Statistics/Mechanics modules and one Decision mathematics module. The choice of which three modules to study in Year 13 will depend on the strengths and interests of the class.

The department also offers a variety of extracurricular and co-curricular activities which enhance students’ enjoyment of the subject and broaden their experience. Additional activities also help students make sense of, and take responsibility for, their learning and also develop their organisational skills. Some of these groups and activities include:

  • Maths numeracy mornings for Year 7 and 8 (run by Year 10 students)
  • Maths Surgery during lunchtime open to all (run by Sixth Form students)
  • Pi club which focuses on problem solving (run by Year 10 students)
  • Maths Fun Club: board games open to all (run by Sixth Form students)
  • Year 8/9 Team challenge
  • Year 10 Maths Feast competition
  • Year 8, 10, 12 and 13 Maths Challenges (our students have reached the national stages)
  • One to one mentoring run by KS4 and KS5 students
  • Add Maths ( Freestanding Maths qualification -Level 3 for GCSE students)
  • History of Maths Club ( open to all)
  • Ritangle team challenge ( A level students)
  • Junior Maths Challenge ( Year 8 students)
  • Intermediate Maths Challenge ( year 10 students)
  • Senior maths challenge ( A level students)
  • Inter-form competitions for Years 7 and 8

The department is housed in a suite of spacious, well-equipped classrooms, all of which have interactive white boards.

Mathematics is a highly respected academic subject, which is welcomed by employers and universities alike.  As well as leading to degrees in Mathematics and STEM related subjects such as Engineering and Physics, it provides excellent preparation for degrees such as Biology and Chemistry, Social Science degrees such as Economics and Psychology, and Medical degrees.  Moreover, many of our students who have studied Mathematics A Level have gone on to follow a wide range of Arts degrees including History and English.

The department also helps mathematics applicants to prepare for university admissions tests.

These sessions give students an indication of what Maths beyond A Level is like, extend their experience beyond the syllabus and give them confidence in applying their knowledge and skills to different types of problems.