Mathematics

Intent and Aims

In Maths we continually build on a pupil’s prior knowledge, from the end of KS2 all the way through to KS5, through a well sequenced, engaging and ambitious Curriculum. We follow the National Curriculum and spiral students learning so that skills, knowledge and understanding are all strengthened and improved upon as students’ progress through the course. We regularly factor in number and algebra lessons at key points in our scheme of learning as these skills underpin so many others.

Each unit of work begins with a short-diagnostic assessment before we take students' learning further. Success in learning is shown through frequent Quality Marked Assessments (QMAs). Homework is an important part of leaning and promotes independent and successful learning. We set homework on a weekly basis to embed mathematical skills which are crucial for exam success. We also use a variety of software packages so that our students can further improve, explore or research their mathematical skills at any level.

Our curriculum has been designed to build and strengthen links between all stages of learning and embed skills that will help all students to be successful in what they choose to do, and for some, feel inspired to take their studies further in a related Mathematical field.

  • Allow all students to achieve, whether disadvantaged, SEND, gifted, or otherwise by following a well sequenced curriculum which continually builds on prior learning.
  • Promote the ‘bigger picture’ of why Mathematics is crucial to society and how it affects our daily lives.
  • Encourage students’ independent learning skills by setting challenging homework tasks that require a mixture of self-study and research to complete.
  • Develop students’ responsibility for learning through monitored self-analysis of their assessments to identify and complete the next steps in improving weaknesses in their understanding (SWAN process).
  • Embed skills that will develop students’ conceptual understanding and help them in the future.
  • Identify and relate with key figures/role models to include individuals of different ethnicities, genders and those with disabilities.
  • Enthuse students so that they continue to explore the beauty and practicality of Mathematics and are inspired to take their studies further in a related field.
  • Develop Mathematical literacy for use in other subjects and outside of school.
  • Ensure that all students have a sufficient grounding in Mathematics to enable them to access their next steps in education or employment.

Key skills

  • Understand and appreciate the language used in Mathematics and be able to confidently communicate through the use of Mathematical words, symbols and diagrams.
  • Look for patterns and relationships between numbers, use reasoning and begin to develop mathematical arguments using data.
  • Learn how problems can be solved by breaking them down into simpler steps and how to make sense of and check information provided.
  • Manipulate, organise and interpret information given in both numerical and written form.

Students should also be able to articulate their ideas and processes used during discussions and formal presentations. Being able to explain clearly their understanding, using appropriate vocabulary and diagrams, and be able to construct increasingly well-developed arguments using algebraic notation. Demonstrating skills in problem solving, logical thinking and creative thinking.
 
Key concepts

Progression in Maths involves using and applying many processes and skills, both in Mathematics lessons and across the whole school curriculum, and to do this, students need to understand key elements within the following areas:

  • Number
  • Geometry
  • Ratio, proportion and rates of change
  • Statistics
  • Probability
  • Algebra
Our programmes of study

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