Maths
Why Study Maths?
Our vision for the Mathematics Department is to inspire a passion for mathematics, developing confident, creative, and resilient learners who understand the relevance of mathematics in the real world and are equipped with the skills to succeed in an ever-changing society.
Foster Mathematical Curiosity: By nurturing a growth mindset, we will encourage all students to embrace challenges, take risks in problem-solving, and see mistakes as a vital part of learning. We endeavour to create an environment where students feel excited and motivated to explore mathematical concepts and discover their potential.
Promote Deep Understanding: We will go beyond rote learning, prioritising conceptual understanding and the ability to apply knowledge in different contexts, including applying their learning to real-life scenarios. Students will gain a solid foundation in core mathematical skills while also developing their reasoning and problem-solving abilities.
Ensure Accessibility and Inclusivity: We will offer a differentiated curriculum that meets the diverse needs of all learners. By providing tailored support and extension opportunities, we will ensure that every student can achieve their best, regardless of their starting point. We are committed to ensuring that mathematics is accessible to all, promoting equality and equity in learning.
Integrate Technology and Real-World Applications: Recognising the increasing importance of digital literacy, we will incorporate technology and real-life scenarios to make mathematics relevant to students’ lives. Making the most interactive tools in class.
Build Collaborative and Independent Learners: We will foster a collaborative classroom culture where students learn from one another, engage in meaningful discussions, and work together to solve problems. At the same time, we will empower students to become independent learners, taking ownership of their mathematical journey and developing transferable skills that extend not only beyond the classroom but also with links across their other school subjects.
Support Progression and Ambition: We will provide clear pathways for progression, ensuring that students are prepared for further study in mathematics and its applications, whether in A-Level, vocational qualifications, or other post-secondary routes. We aim to inspire students to see mathematics not only as a subject but as a gateway to a wide range of careers and opportunities.
Year 7
Students build on primary knowledge, focusing on core number skills, fractions, decimals, and percentages. They explore basic algebraic expressions and simple equations, introduce negative numbers, ratios, and proportions, and start working with angles, symmetry, and area. Data handling (charts, averages) and basic probability are also introduced to develop mathematical reasoning and problem-solving.
Year 8
Concepts deepen with more complex algebra (expanding, factorising, linear graphs), indices, and sequences. Geometry extends to transformations, circles, and constructions. Students strengthen skills in ratio, proportion, and real-life applications. Probability and statistics become more detailed, and problem-solving across topics is emphasised to prepare for GCSE-style thinking.
Years 9–11 (Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics)
Students study all core strands: Number, Algebra, Geometry, Statistics, and Probability. Topics include quadratic equations, simultaneous equations, trigonometry, vectors, compound measures, and data analysis. They learn mathematical reasoning, proof, and modelling. Assessment focuses on problem-solving and applying mathematics to real-world and abstract contexts at Foundation or Higher Tier.
Years 12–13 (OCR MEI A Level)
OCR MEI A Level Mathematics emphasises understanding, reasoning, and application. It includes Pure Mathematics (algebra, functions, trigonometry, calculus, coordinate geometry, sequences, and proof), Statistics (data presentation, probability, binomial and normal distributions, hypothesis testing), and Mechanics (kinematics, forces, Newton’s laws, moments). MEI also encourages exploration and modelling through contextual problem-solving and optional enrichment units such as numerical methods or differential equations.