Maths
Introduction
Maths is taught by a hugely experienced department who bring their enthusiasm to the classroom every day. The teachers are from a wide variety of backgrounds, allowing interdisciplinary connections to be made. The teaching is not restricted to the national curriculum, and pupils are encouraged to develop their thinking skills, problem-solving ability and to become independent learners. In addition to time spent in the classroom, pupils are entered into national competitions, in both individual and team events.
Lower School
Students in First and Second Form enjoy our carefully curated Lower School Maths curriculum which has problem-solving embedded throughout. Key skills such as high-quality mathematical communication, numerical reasoning and algebraic fluency are put front and centre, and students are prepared thoroughly for IGCSE study.
In First Form, pupils are initially taught in their Forms which allows them to settle in, and for us as staff to get to know their strengths and weaknesses. The teaching groups are rearranged at the end of the Autumn Term based on a holistic judgement. We appreciate that some pupils prefer extra stretch and challenge whilst others prefer more nurturing and support. There is always flexibility, with the teaching groups reviewed on a regular basis.
All sets cover the same syllabus, using the same materials and sit all tests and exams at the same time.
Third Form
The Third Form begin the IGCSE course, studying number, algebra, data-handling, probability, and shape and space. Pupils work in sets with those of similar ability and where the teaching style is suited to their needs. Particularly keen students are invited to choose the Additional Maths School-Designed Course.
GCSE (Middle School)
Alongside preparation for the IGCSE examinations, additional Mathematics content is studied. Pupils are introduced to some A Level concepts and richer problem-solving tasks.
A Level (Sixth Form)
Mathematics is a very popular A Level choice. The pupils study the OCR B (MEI) syllabus, all of which is examined at the end of the Upper Sixth Form.
Pupils study Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics, sitting three papers (Pure Mathematics and Mechanics, Pure Mathematics and Statistics, Pure Mathematics and Comprehension).
‘Further Maths’ is a completely separate A Level which is taught alongside the single A Level. There is a certain amount of choice here, allowing pupils to focus on Mechanics, Statistics or Extra Pure Mathematics. Those planning to study subjects such as Mathematics, Engineering, Economics, Computer Science or Physics may need to have studied the two A Levels in order to apply to certain universities. Special extension classes are provided for those needing to take STEP papers or alternative admissions tests in order to satisfy the conditions of their offer.
Co-Curricular, Trips, Competitions and Societies
Pupils have the opportunity to join various clubs including Maths Plus, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), Chess, Data Science, and Maths club.
The student-led Mathematics Society organises a variety of initiatives, including a half-termly newsletter that welcomes submissions from all age groups. They also coordinate visiting speakers who are invited to entertain and inform on a wide variety of topics, such as Bio-Mechanics, String Theory and The Mathematics of Fantasy Football. Lower Sixth Further Mathematics pupils enjoy a day of lectures in London, gaining insight into some of the many ways in which Mathematics is used in the ‘real world’.
One-off mathematical trips and activities include the First Form visit to MathsWorld London, the Fourth Form Maths Morning where the pupils explore super-curricular Maths, and the Lower Sixth have the opportunity to attend a series of Maths lectures from excellent Maths communicators.
University & Careers
Mathematics is a worthwhile and rewarding degree to pursue beyond A Level, but study of Maths will also support the pupils’ studies in subjects such as Science, Economics, Engineering, Architecture, Computer Science or Geography. Many university courses in these and similar areas will require A Level Mathematics.
We believe that all students should be able to access and enjoy mathematics and we work hard to build a culture that celebrates learning from mistakes and relishing the challenges of problem solving. We are proud to be part of the Problem-solving School programme from NRICH.
