Mathematics

Mathematics equips pupils with a uniquely powerful set of tools to understand and change the world. These tools include logical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and the ability to think in abstract ways. Mathematics is important in everyday life, many forms of employment, science and technology, medicine, the economy, the environment and development, and in public decision making.

At our school, we employ a Mastery Approach to teaching mathematics, ensuring that all pupils achieve a deep, secure, and adaptable understanding of core concepts before moving on. This approach, supported by our active collaboration with the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM), focuses on developing fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills in every child.

Different cultures have contributed to the development and application of mathematics. Today, the subject transcends cultural boundaries and its importance is universally recognised. Furthermore, we actively promote cross-curricular work, particularly with Science, to help pupils see mathematics not as an isolated subject, but as the essential language for understanding and analysing the physical world.

Mathematics is a creative discipline. It can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder when a pupil solves a problem for the first time, discovers a more elegant solution to that problem, or suddenly sees hidden connection

Department Aims

To develop:

A positive attitude to mathematics, including confidence, enjoyment and perseverance
The ability to read mathematics, and write and talk about the subject in a variety of ways
The ability to use mathematics as a means of communication with emphasis on the use of clear expression
The ability to solve problems, present solutions clearly showing all necessary working out, check and interpret results
A willingness and ability to work independently and cooperatively
The ability to apply mathematics in other subjects
The ability to apply mathematics in everyday situations and develop an understanding of the part which mathematics plays in the world
A feel for number, the ability to carry out calculations and to understand the significance of the results obtained
The skill to investigate mathematical ideas to test and prove their own hypothesis
To provide a caring, learning environment in which each pupil is valued and in which each pupil can fulfil their potential
A firm foundation for appropriate further study.

Strategies for Success in Mathematics

There are a range of strategies you can use or attend to help you maximise your potential in Maths:

Independent Revision Apps - Mathswatch, PIXL, Just Maths, TT Rockstars
Exam Paper Practice
Revision Guides available from the maths department
Participation in class discussions

Equipment

All pupils must have a pen, pencil, ruler and a Casio calculator (scientific). The new curriculum has two calculator papers and one non calculator paper. It is vital that pupils have the Casio calculator so that we can teach all pupils how to use the calculator from year 7 through to year 11. All Saints heavily subsidise the cost of the Casio calculator and students can buy one from our library in school.