Curriculum

Maths (including Further Maths)

Mathematics is diverse, engaging and essential in equipping pupils with the right skills to reach their future destination, whatever that may be. Our aim is to enable pupils to build a secure framework of mathematical reasoning, which they can use and apply with confidence.

Our maths curriculum allows pupils to develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts. They are able to acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems and reason mathematically, making deductions and inferences, and drawing conclusions. We set challenging targets in conjunction with high expectations for all pupils; targets which we hope to achieve through a variety of teaching and learning practices to engage and motivate pupils.

Our vision for Maths

Mathematics is a universal language that enables understanding of the world. It is an integral part of the curriculum. Beyond the study of numbers, shapes and patterns, it also provides important tools for work in fields such as engineering, physics, architecture, medicine and business. It nurtures the development of a logical and methodical mindset, as well helping to inculcate focus and the ability to solve all manner of problems. Attainment in the subject is also the key to opening new doors to further study and employment.

The whole-school curriculum operates at three levels and addresses pupils’ academic, personal and social development. The three individual elements of learning provide a different component to the education of every pupil. Intellectual, personal and social maturity will be the goal of these structured layers of learning at the school.  There are three guiding elements which are brought to life in the mathematics curriculum:

  • Educational excellence: Mathematics’ teachers engender an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject
  • Character development: Mathematics’ teachers nurture a logical and methodical mindset and help pupils to reason and solve problems. Quiet focused mathematical scholarship is also promoted.
  • Service to communities: Mathematics’ teachers promote teamwork and collaboration in the classroom when solving problems. Pupils are encouraged to use their mathematical skills in everyday life and recognise how they underpin advances in science and technology.

Key Stage 3 Intent

Year 7 focuses on re-teaching of topics from KS2 where gaps are identified, and establishing a strong grasp of the number line, fractions, and decimals. Introductions to KS3 algebra and shape are gradual; the aim is to slowly build confidence. Year 8 focuses on building on the algebra and shape introduced in Y7.  Graphs, sequences, and probability are also explored at higher levels and connections between different branches start to be made. Students are given time to build on declarative knowledge across the many areas of mathematics. Year 9 focuses on developing strong procedural skills on the parts of the curriculum covered so far. Confidence and accuracy in calculation and manipulation are emphasised as well as articulating reasons and linking different methods and ideas. Advanced ideas around ratio and proportion, inequalities and data handling are explored. Reinforcing and using mathematical concepts and notation help build a strong foundation for the higher-level maths to come.

Key Stage 3 Implementation

Learning Journeys

Key Stage 3 Impact

Fluency composites are completed after numerous mini check points to assess mastery of the topic/s. Gaps or misconceptions that have been identified upon the completion of fluency composites are re-visited and re-assessed in the fluency composite that follows after a period of time in order to compel pupils to recall.

Key Stage 4 Intent

Year 10 focuses on investigating some of the most advanced parts of the curriculum. Higher level trigonometry, surds, quadratic equations and data handling techniques are studied and intentional time is given to explore concepts in detail. Students begin to articulate ideas mathematically and make links to previous learning clearly. Year 11 focuses on making and building connections between the different branches of mathematics to help solve high level problems. All topics covered are multi-layered and draw on a strong understanding of many areas of the curriculum. Students are required to communicate mathematically using established notation and ideas as they will in any further study of the subject. Students understanding and knowledge is deepened and there is also a clear focus on the use of the subject in the real world.

Key Stage 4 Implementation

Learning Journey

Key Stage 4 Impact

Number

Algebra

Ratio, Proportion and Rates of change

Geometry and Measures

Statistics & Probability

Paper 1

Paper 2

Paper 3

Written examination:

1 hour 30 min

Written examination:

1 hour 30 min

Written examination:

1 hour 30 min

Non-calculator

Calculator

Calculator

80 marks

80 marks

80 marks

Enrichment and Careers

The Department offers subject-specific enrichment clubs and organises a range of educational visits throughout the year, such as `UK Maths challenge (junior), Manchester University visit, Puzzle company.  Pupils are able to take part in school-wide competitions, as well as representing the Academy in local and national competitions designed to increase their engagement and enhance their subject knowledge. Intervention sessions to consolidate prior learning and ensure maximum progress are at the heart of our delivery model.

Mathematics is a part of our daily lives.  Some examples of post-16 qualifications that you may go into when pursuing Computer Science:  A-level Economics, A-level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, A-level Accounting, A-level Chemistry, A-Level Biology

Careers include:

  • Acoustic Consultant
  • Actuarial Analyst
  • Astronomer
  • Data Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Software Engineer
  • Sound engineer
  • Finance
  • Game design
Useful Resources and Revision Support