School Zone

Mathematics Department

The Mathematics Department is a thriving part of the school, with 20 experienced staff teaching across the full age and ability range, from 13-18. Students in all year groups are set according to ability, Year 9 students are set with the assistance of the Middle Schools, with whom the Department has an excellent relationship.  Year 10 students are following the Edexcel Linear syllabus and Year 11 students are following the AQA Modular syllabus for GCSE. There is a wide range of resources available, including a projector and interactive whiteboard in every teaching room and a variety of text books are used. The scheme of work reflects the needs of the Numeracy Strategy and the new modular GCSE, whilst giving students access to all areas of the curriculum. The Department is firmly committed to all students having the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Mathematics has become an increasingly popular choice at AS and A2 level, with approximately 200 students currently studying AS Mathematics in Year 12. The students follow the Edexcel modular course, studying Statistics and two Core Mathematics modules in Year 12, then two Core modules and Decision Maths in Year 13. Further Maths is also a popular choice, with over 80 students currently taking this option at A2 or AS level.  A variety of resources are used in the Sixth Form and we have recently started teaching year 12 through a combination of lectures and lessons, using a double-sized classroom.  Sixth Form students can work in their own Maths Study Room (M6) and there are ex-students available to help them. There are also several students studying for STEP papers and Oxbridge entry.

There is excellent ICT provision throughout the school, with more facilities included in the current phase of building. The school review system for students is computerised, and the schools ICT facilities are fully networked. The School has Science College Status and this has brought about significantly increased resourcing in the Mathematics department. Every member of staff is provided with a lap top computer and we have a set of laptops that can be booked out for lessons.

The area plays its part in cross-curricular work and has helped in the agreement of a number of whole school policies, including marking and assessment. This work is continuing, particularly in the light of numeracy across the curriculum.

This is an exceptionally strong Curriculum Area with results that produces excellent results at all levels. Colleagues are involved in many clubs and activities, with regular Maths Clubs popular with students in all year groups.  Students from all years take part in UKMT Maths Challenges and take part in local team competitions.