Mathematics

Head of Mathematics Mr Stuart Wiles

Mathematics is taught as a core subject in ability sets to all pupils from Year 7 to Year 11 then as a popular optional subject at A/S and A level.

From the beginning of Year 7 mathematics is taught in sets and it continues to be set up to Year 11. The department continuously reviews individual progress and where appropriate, movement between sets is possible.

The syllabus for Years 7 - 9 is based on levels 5 to 8 of the National Curriculum. The department follows the new SMP Interact Course, which uses a variety of teaching approaches in order to stimulate pupils and foster their understanding and enjoyment of mathematics.

Assessments take place on a class basis throughout the year. At the end of Year 9 all pupils take the National Key Stage 3 tests and the results are reported to parents at the end of the summer term. 

In Years 10 and 11 all pupils follow the Edexcel GCSE Mathematics course at Higher or Foundation level. The assessment involves two written papers at the end of year 11 and two internally assessed pieces of coursework. One is data handling and the other is an investigation.

Mathematics continues to be the most popular A/S and A level subject.

The course followed is the modular Edexcel. We usually have two sets following the A level course consisting of six modules and one or two sets following the A level and Further Mathematics course consisting of twelve modules. A variety of modules are offered including pure mathematics, mechanics, statistics and decision mathematics.

Mathematics clinics run after school so that individual help can be offered. These are much appreciated especially by sixth form pupils resittting modules.

All pupils are able to enter the national mathematical challenge competitions. Several students have been invited to take part in the British Mathematical Olympiads and International competitions.

Each year pupils from Years 7, 8 and 9 are chosen to take part in local  team problem solving competitions..

The department also run an annual problem solving competition for Year 6 pupils from local Junior and Prep schools.