Departments
Mathematics
“Mathematics – the unshaken foundation of sciences, and the plentiful fountain of advantage to human affairs.” Isaac Barrow
Teaching Staff
Mr R Daniells (HOD)
Miss C Allen
Mr D Doey
Miss L Halligan
Mrs L McCully
Mrs N Wojcieszak
Ms S Chan
Aims
As S. Gudder wrote “The essence of Mathematics is not to make simple things complicated, but to make complicated things simple.” We aim to enable pupils to communicate mathematically so that they can use the transferable skills that it develops in their lives. Mathematics is used everyday; to predict weather, to tell time, to handle money, as well in many unseen areas of life. Our hope is that we pass on to our pupils our enjoyment of the subject and to show its beauty as well as its utility.
Key Stage 3
All pupils in Years 8 – 10 follow the programme of study of the N. I. (Revised) Curriculum. This covers the five attainment targets of Mathematics;
Processes in Mathematics
Number
Algebra
Shape, Space and Measure
Handling Data.
The aim is to provide a solid foundation of knowledge and skills that will allow pupils to access the GCSE courses.
GCSE Mathematics
Pupils follow the CCEA modular specification. Last year 100% of GCSE candidates achieved A* - C grades. Pupils can choose to study Additional Mathematics, which takes pupils beyond the content of the GCSE Higher Tier. It serves as a stepping stone into A Level Mathematics by introducing pure mathematics, mechanics and statistics topics.
AS/A2 Mathematics
Students at this level build upon the knowledge, understanding and skills that they have developed in their previous studies of Mathematics. A wide range of Statistics, Mechanics and Pure Mathematics are covered, and pupils should be able to access any further education courses that require Mathematics. Pupils can also choose to study Further Mathematics which gives an excellent foundation for pupils wishing to follow Mathematics, Engineering or Science Further Education courses. Pupils studying Further Mathematics will complete their A2 Level Mathematics in Year 13 and then study the Further Mathematics modules in Year 14.
Resources and facilities
An active learning approach is adopted. ICT is used, where appropriate, to enhance the learning experience of the pupils. Also, all Mathematics classrooms have a class set of mini whiteboards which are used to assess the level of knowledge and to deepen understanding. We have data projection and audio-visual facilities, and access to the school computer suites.
Achievements and recent successes
The Mathematics Department adopts an inclusive attitude towards entering the UKMT Maths Junior Challenge. The Intermediate Challenge is open to those pupils studying Additional Mathematics. Pupils studying A Level Mathematics can enter the Senior Challenge.
