Mathematics
Member of staff
Mrs C. Seal: Curriculum Lead Maths
Mr M. Parry: Teacher of Maths
Mrs A. Pourkarimi: Teacher of Maths
Mr O. Hayes: Teacher of Maths/Head of Year
Ms S. Kooner: Teacher of Maths/Head of Year
Miss R. Melvin: Teacher of Maths/Head of Year
Mr M. Harries-Walker: Teacher of Maths/Intervention
GCSE Mathematics
For GCSE study we use the AQA exam board, linear specification 8300. This is a 2-tier specification with Foundation (Grade 1-5) being taught separately from Higher (Grade 4-9) and includes content based on:
- Number
- Algebra
- Geometry
- Ratio and Proportion
- Statistics
- Probability
It is our aim that most students should attempt the Higher paper with sets being created to encourage as many students as possible to access its content. However, some groups have the opportunity of completing the Foundation tier if necessary.
Intent
In maths, we want all learners to come away knowing how to think, read, write and speak like a mathematician. We expect all students to enter the classroom with the confidence and knowledge that they will be able to access the whole curriculum. Staff will teach with passion, excitement and enthusiasm to enable all students to understand and apply maths in the real world. In doing so, staff will support all students to be ambitious, determined and respectful, securing good outcomes for all.
Our curriculum is underpinned by the school’s core values of Ambition, Determination, and Respect:
- Ambition: Learners are encouraged to develop confidence through active learning and problem solving.
- Determination: Learners are developing the skills to apply prior knowledge and seek ideas from their peers to come to solutions themselves when they are learning something new.
- Respect: Learners are collaboratively building the skills to be confident mathematicians in and out of the classroom, encouraging one another to never give up and keep persevering.
The curriculum is carefully designed to build the foundational knowledge and skills required for success in AQA GCSE Maths (8300), with clear progression from KS3 to KS4. It ensures that all learners, regardless of background or ability, can access and apply maths in any context.
Implementation
Maths is taught through a sequenced and inclusive programme of study that develops pupils’ skills in four key learning foci (LFs):
- LF1: Number fluency and calculation
- LF2: Reason mathematically
- LF3: Solve problems in context
- LF4: Use algebra and geometry skills
At Key Stage 3, learners:
- Engage in active learning strategies to build on problem solving skills.
- Explore what it means to ‘think, read, write and speak like a mathematician’.
- Develop a strong foundation in number skills to help build on topics in later years.
- Have the opportunity to be entered in nationwide competitions, such as the UKMT Challenge and TTRS challenges.
Assessment is based on the KS3 Maths Grade Descriptors, using the four-tier model: Emerging, Advancing, Deepening, and Mastering to track progress and provide clear, supportive feedback.
At Key Stage 4, learners follow the AQA GCSE Maths (8300) course, building on their KS3 skills and are entered into either a Foundation Tier (grade 5 or below) or Higher Tier (those aiming for above a grade 5).
Impact
By the end of Key Stage 3, learners will have:
- Developed a secure understanding of key number skills.
- Gained confidence in applying mathematical thinking to a new topic.
- Built the skills needed to problem solve in preparation for the GCSE course.
Our Maths curriculum ensures that learners leave KS3 with the ambition to apply maths in the real world, the determination to persevere and never give up, and the respect to understand everyone can do maths, just at different levels and speed.
At Key Stage 4, learners demonstrate increasing independence, confidence and resilience. Many recognise the importance of where they will use maths in their future career choice. The curriculum prepares learners not only for academic success but also equips them with transferable skills for life in any setting.
Learning Journey
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