Mathematics

Maths is a real test of character as it demands continual practice and a willingness to persevere in the understanding of new concepts through problems.

Aims

-  To encourage a genuine interest in Mathematics by presenting it as a lively and expanding subject, exciting both in itself and in its relevance to the demands of a modern society

-  To appreciate patterns and relationships in mathematics

-  To solve problems and present the solutions clearly, by encouraging logical thinking, originality of thought and discovery

-  To read mathematics and write and talk about the subject with confidence

-  To develop abilities by individual and co-operative experiment, including extended pieces of work of a practical and investigative nature, recognising that mathematics is a tool in many other spheres of learning.

Years 7, 8 and 9

It is assumed that, on entering the school, all pupils will have acquired the basic arithmetical skills, including the four rules of number and some knowledge of fractions and decimals.

In Year 7 some time is spent consolidating and extending these skills, including the teaching of negative numbers. The basic concepts of geometry, algebra, probability and statistics are introduced.

These skills are further developed in Years 8 and 9 and trigonometry is introduced.
All entrants are placed in parallel forms in Year 7 and follow the same syllabus, sitting common examinations twice a year.

From Year 8 onwards, the year group is divided into sets according to ability.  Movement between sets is possible.

Mathematical investigations, where the value lies more in the activity of solving the problem rather than the solution itself, are part of the syllabus from Year 7.

Years 10 and 11 - GCSE

The teaching in Years 10 and 11 is aimed at the GCSE examination, taken at the end of Year 11.

6th Form

In the Sixth Form we offer a variety of choices at Advanced Subsidiary and Advanced Level in Modular Form:

AS Mathematics
A Mathematics: Pure and Mechanics
A Mathematics:  Pure and Statistics
A Mathematics: Pure, Mechanics and Statistics
AS Further Mathematics, offered for exceptional students

A mathematics workshop is held each week on Thursday lunchtime, and is designed for pupils throughout the school to discuss specific problems, to catch up with work after an absence, or simply to enjoy extra maths.

A games club is held each week on Monday lunchtime to develop logic and thinking skills in a fun way.

All pupils are required to possess, at the appropriate level, geometrical instruments and a scientific calculator.