Mathematics

Why do we study Mathematics?

Intent 

The intent of our mathematics curriculum is to support every student to reach their full potential and give every student as many opportunities to experience success in the subject.

Our curriculum is designed to continually build on previous learning and extend these skills over time by using a combination of fluency, reasoning and problem solving. Our cohorts arrive with a range of mathematical experiences, and it is important that we understand this when delivering new content and ensuring that students are receiving the most appropriate input at each stage of their learning journey.

We aim to build on knowledge year on year, ensuring high-quality instruction allows skills to be developed, with problem-solving skills developed in all learners and exposure to real-life situations, which help students make links. 

Our curriculum allows students to progress at different rates whilst ensuring the key concepts are understood and practised. A significant focus is put on challenging all students in building their understanding and looking deeper into topics to provide further extension. 

Implementation

By the beginning of the 2026-27 school year, every year group will be working on the Bright Maths Scheme of Learning. This has been chosen because of the opportunity to clearly revisit topics every year and build on existing learning. 

Students are assessed regularly using assessments designed to match each unit, as well as “Recall Assessments”, which focus on retrieving previously learnt knowledge. Whole-class feedback is given to help follow up on these assessments and provide students with opportunities to make improvements.

 Do Nows are purposely built to retrieve information in a structured way, with carefully planned interleaving and revisiting of key skills from each unit. 

The content for each unit is carefully planned in small “atoms”, focusing on checking prior knowledge, clear modelling of new ideas and opportunities for purposeful practice.

The use of clear routines for AFL, modelling and practice is a key focus of the department, and we strive for useful consistency across the team to maximise the impact of what we deliver.

A strong focus in KS4 on exam technique is key to knitting together all of the skills that have been learnt, and routine activities such as “Super Starters” and 5-a-day questions help with this.

Using data effectively and communicating with students and parents promptly is a key part of what we are trying to achieve, and we are keen to continue exploring ways of improving this.

Impact

All students study Mathematics in Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, who are taught by passionate teachers who have the knowledge and understanding to demonstrate a love of their subject; this we aim to foster in our students. Impact of improved learning is evidenced concretely through assessment and tracking data. 

Students will be able to understand the importance of sequencing and the links between topics. High expectations will drive up academic achievement and enable students to become more aspirational, confident and self-assured in their mathematical thinking. 

The knowledge and understanding that students gain from well-taught challenging lessons enables them to gain the confidence and skills to question, challenge and pursue tasks and problems that they face. This will enable them to achieve the results and progress both within school and beyond. Students understand the value of mathematical concepts and their importance within the school, beyond school and in life. 

We aim to increase the number of students who are choosing maths-related options in their next steps by ensuring appropriate stretch and challenge are provided. 

Meet the team

• Mr Britton (Head of Maths)
• Mr Richardson (2nd i/c)
• Mr Tanner
• Dr Gentile
• Mr Anderson
• Mr Samuels
• Mr Rodney
• Mr Dumbleton
• Mr Lodge
• Miss Dibble

 KS3 Programme of Study

Course: Mathematics

Exam Board: Edexcel Mathematics (either Higher or Foundation Tier)

The course is assessed by examination at the end of Year 11. There are three papers, all of which are compulsory.

Paper 1 Non-calculator 1hr 30 mins
Paper 2 Calculator 1hr 30 mins
Paper 3 Calculator 1hr 30 mins

GCSE Programme of Study

Resources

CGP Revision Guides and Exam Practice Workbooks are available to purchase on SCOPAY.

CASIO Scientific Calculators are also available for £9.85.

Homework

Homework is set every Friday for all groups at KS3 and KS4 and is due on the following Friday.

We mostly use online homework tasks. The tasks enable students to get immediate feedback on their progress as well as providing progress data to teachers. In years 7-10 we use SPARX Maths which includes support videos, personalised questions and opportunities to practise times tables.

Year 11 complete a half-length past paper every week.

Enrichment Opportunities in Mathematics

In KS4 we offer after school workshops to support Year 11 students preparing for their GCSE exams (these will be starting in Term 3)

At both KS3 and KS4 we offer lunchtime Mathematics Clubs for those wanting to extend their mathematical knowledge beyond the curriculum.