Mathematics

Aims

We aim to provide a high quality curriculum for the teaching and learning of mathematics that will:

• extend each pupil to his or her fullest potential, build upon on previous knowledge and recognise individual capabilities
• foster a positive attitude towards mathematics and an awareness of the fascination of the subject
• develop pupils competence and confidence in mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills
• provide pupils with a broad range of mathematical skills and understanding in order that they can apply these across the curriculum and in real life
• enable pupils to solve problems, to reason, to think logically and to work systematically
• provide opportunities for pupils to work with initiative, both independently and in cooperation with others
• develop pupils ability to communicate their ideas clearly
• encourage a deeper understanding of mathematics through a process of enquiry and experiment

Organisation

Head of Department – Mr S Lawry

In the Prep Department, mathematics lessons take the form of a 60 minute lesson. Every fortnight the pupils experience at least the following number of lessons:

Years 3 to 6: 8 lessons

Years 7 to 8: 7 lessons

In Years 3 to 6 an additional set group is made, enabling set sizes to be kept low, particularly for those who find mathematics a challenge. The Learning Support Department also provides support in some of these lessons.

Content

In years 3 to 6, the children use the Abacus Scheme, which follows the objectives from the recent 2014 National Curriculum. The depth of material provided allows teachers to offer additional support or extension activities as required. More able children are often stretched with strategies from the year above when deemed appropriate. They also use additional challenge books that allow them to apply their knowledge in complex problem solving exercises.

In Years 7 and 8, children follow the Common Entrance Syllabus and the top sets work from plans a year in advance. In all years, children use Mathematics for Common Entrance books, alongside other materials as required. The 13+ maths syllabus can be found on the ISEB website. The Mathematics Department makes regular use of ICT resources to support the children’s learning. An expanding list of revision materials and links can be found on the maths section of Firefly.

Trips and Events

Mathematical challenges and visiting speakers form an important part of the curriculum as they help foster an enjoyment in mathematics. Pupils are entered for numerous regional and national mathematical competitions and challenges.

Biannually we hold a World Maths Day where all children from reception to Year 8 compete against other children from around the world. In addition we hold an annual STEM Week (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), where pupils have the opportunity to explore and make further links between these subjects. Every three years, we hold a maths evening, where parents are invited to attend a range of workshops on modern pedagogy and teaching methods in mathematics.