Maths
The mathematics department hopes to engender a love of mathematics through engaging and stimulating mathematical activities that cater for differing learning styles and enable all pupils to have equal access to the curriculum. By encouraging logical thought processes and making pupils more numerate, we aim to equip pupils to face problems that might arise both in other curriculum areas and in everyday life.
Maths is taught in an interactive way and pupils are given the opportunity to work in groups as well as individually. Through a range of teaching and learning styles such as practical activities, computer games and visualization exercises etc, we try to cater for kinaesthetic, auditory and visual learners so that all pupils can access the curriculum and make progress.
ICT will have a higher profile in the coming year: We look forward to furthering our use of the interactive white boards and to introducing on line testing which will give us greater flexibility in when and how we asses pupils. Where possible all students are prepared for appropriate external public exams and assessment.
KS3 classes follow the National Numeracy Strategy, which covers number, algebra, shape and space and data handling. Lessons are delivered in the manner recommended by the National Numeracy Strategy and are adapted to the particular needs and abilities of the pupils. Pupils take SATs and ‘on demand’ tests.
KS4 classes follow both the Unit Award Scheme and Entry Level Certification using the AQA specification or the Foundation level curriculum for GCSE using the Edexcel specification. Entry-level units cover basic skills in number, statistics, shape, calculators, money, and time. Module tests are taken after completion of a specific unit of work in order to gain accreditation for Entry Level Certification. The G.C.S.E curriculum offers further breadth and depth of coverage across the four main curriculum areas of number, algebra, shape and space, and data handling. The GCSE course will be changing to 2-tier entry without coursework. Pupils on the alternative learning program will now follow an ALAN basic skills course as part of their personalised learning program.