The Mathematics Department aims to enable each student to develop her mathematical ability to the full. Mathematics is compulsory up to GCSEs and we recognise that some pupils find the subject easier than others. For this purpose, students are taught in mixed ability groups in Years 7 and 8 and then set in Year 9 in preparation for GCSEs.
Mathematics is key for all pupils to develop as it equips them with a powerful set of tools to understand and change the world. These tools include: logical reasoning; problem solving skills; the ability to think in abstract ways and creativity.
We encourage pupils' pleasure with the subject, particularly when they solve problems or suddenly find a hidden connection between quantities or topics. This enables pupils to enjoy Mathematics as they progress with the subject, which can be useful to them in later life. We arrange a number of activities and clubs for support and to push their understanding and enjoyment of the subject for all abilities. Mathematics Support Club is run after school and focuses on helping girls that have had difficulties with some topics in Years 7 - 9. Lunchtime GCSE Surgeries are run to help the girls with exam preparation for the GCSEs. There are weekend extension lessons run by the Royal Institution for Year 8. We regularly take part in national competitions run by the UK Mathematics Trust, for girls of all ages. In the summer term the department runs a Mathematical Relay Race as a competition between the Houses, in which Mathematicians from Year 5 up to and including the staff take part in answering questions and running back with their answers to earn points for their House!
Mathematics promotes the key skills of Communication, Application of Number and Information Communication Technology. The pupils are given investigations and projects, where they are expected to explain their work carefully, methodically and systematically. Through regular exercise of mental arithmetic and by using and applying their knowledge and understanding of Mathematics, pupils develop their application of number and algebra. Mathematics also promotes other skills such as thinking, financial capability and work related learning. This is developed by applying Mathematics to daily life problems and other subject areas.
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