Mathematics

Number

Students strengthen their number skills, including working accurately with integers, fractions, decimals and percentages. They learn to estimate, check the reasonableness of answers, and use mental and written methods confidently.

 

Algebra

In algebra, students begin to use letters to represent numbers and relationships. They learn to simplify expressions, substitute values, solve equations, explore sequences and understand graphs, helping them describe patterns and make predictions.

 

Ratios and proportion 

Students learn how to compare quantities, scale up or down, use percentages, and solve real-life problems involving things like recipes, best buys, speed, conversions and growth.

 

Geometry and Measures

In geometry and measures, students learn about shapes, angles, symmetry, perimeter, area and volume, alongside using accurate measurement and understanding properties of 2D and 3D shapes.

 

Statistics and Probability

In statistics and probability, students learn how to collect, display and interpret data using graphs and charts, and they explore probability to understand how likely events are and to make informed predictions.

 

Across all topics, students are encouraged to reason clearly, explain their thinking, and solve problems in different contexts — building confidence, resilience and strong mathematical understanding.

We assess pupils’ mathematics in a variety of ways to make sure we have a full picture of their understanding and progress. This includes both formative assessment (ongoing checks during lessons) and summative assessment (more formal end‑of‑topic or end‑of‑term tests).

 

• Mini whiteboards are used in every lesson. This allows teachers to see every pupil’s thinking and quickly identify who may need more help or challenge.
• Carefully planned questions encourage children to think deeply about the maths they are learning.
• Teachers also assess through observing children, discussing ideas, marking work, and using short assessments.

 

Students are encouraged to use their classwork and resources such as knowledge organisers to support, review and strengthen their learning.

 

Homework is used to help consolidate learning. We use Sparx Maths (www.sparxmaths.com) as our main weekly homework platform.

GCSE Mathematics

Students follow the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (1MA1) course and sit their examinations at the end of Year 11.

The qualification is available at two levels: Higher Tier (grades 9–4) and Foundation Tier (grades 5–1). Decisions about tier entry are made following the Year 11 mock examinations to ensure students are entered for the tier best suited to their attainment and potential.

The GCSE consists of three equally weighted examination papers: one non-calculator paper and two calculator papers. Each paper lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and is worth 80 marks.

Throughout the course, students study a broad range of mathematical topics, including number, algebra, ratio and proportion, geometry and measures, probability, and statistics. Progress is regularly assessed through classroom activities, mini-tests, and practice examination papers. Students also use Sparx Maths and other revision resources to consolidate their learning and prepare for examinations.

 

GCSE Statistics

Students can also gain a GCSE qualification in Statistics through the Pearson Edexcel GCSE Statistics (1ST0) course. Studying Statistics alongside GCSE Mathematics helps students develop their understanding of data and probability, while benefiting from familiar question styles and overlapping content from the same exam board.

The qualification is available at two levels: Higher Tier (grades 9–4) and Foundation Tier (grades 5–1). Decisions about tier entry are made following the Year 11 mock examinations to ensure students are entered for the tier best suited to their attainment and potential.

The GCSE consists of two examination papers, each lasting 1 hour 30 minutes and worth 80 marks. Throughout the course, students study a range of statistical topics, including data collection, data processing and representation, analysis and interpretation of data, and probability.

Progress is regularly assessed through classroom activities, mini-tests, and practice examination papers, helping students to develop confidence and prepare effectively for their examinations.