Mathematics

The Junior mathematics curriculum is designed to ensure a great foundation of mathematical understanding, ensuring our students are ready for Year 7. Lessons cover the key areas of number, calculation, proportion, geometry and statistics and a high value is put on the development and extension of mental maths strategies to support their thinking. Challenge is built into all lessons with great emphasis on problem-solving and reasoning skills. In Year 6, students are split into two groups based on ability allowing greater support for those who need it.

In Lower School, we ensure careful crossover from preparatory education to fully embed the key fundamentals of mathematics in number and shape. We develop and extend students’ knowledge and understanding of algebra to ensure a confident grasp of algebraic principles that govern the manipulation of expressions and equations. We explore mathematics in the fields of geometry, probability and statistics. Alongside increasing knowledge and understanding, students continuously develop their problem-solving skills and learn to reason around concepts and build connections. All students are given opportunities to sit the UKMT Junior Mathematics Challenge in both Years 7 and 8.

At this stage of learning, our students are well-equipped to tackle the rigour and challenge of GCSE mathematics. We continue to build on prior learning in the fields of number, algebra, geometry and statistics with a drive to develop the quality of written solutions using fluent algebra and mathematical statements. This encourages clear thinking through complex problems and supports success at the challenging questions in GCSE examinations. Lessons promote reasoning and problem-solving as well as ensuring a secure grasp of GCSE content. We follow the Edexcel GCSE specification at Higher Tier level. All students are given opportunities to sit the UKMT Intermediate Mathematics Challenge.

A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics

A level Mathematics is a popular subject at St Helen’s and students arrive prepared for the challenges of extending their knowledge and understanding to form a deeper understanding and appreciation for its fundamental importance across other subjects and the wider world. Our A level mathematicians are fluent in algebraic principles so that they can be applied accurately in a range of contexts in the fields of pure and applied mathematics (mechanics and statistics). The curiosity fostered in previous years to explore, consider and reason will support students when applying their newly learned processes to complex problems. We follow the Edexcel A level mathematics specification. Students are given opportunities to sit the UKMT Senior Mathematical Challenge and the Mathematical Olympiad for Girls.

For students wishing to have more opportunities to be creative and investigative with this subject, then studying Further Mathematics as a St Katharine’s Study option is also an option. Concepts such as complex numbers and matrices are studied as well as delving more broadly into the fields of pure and applied mathematics. If students really enjoy mathematics or are considering a degree course in mathematics or a subject with a substantial amount of mathematical content such as engineering, physics or economics, they should seriously consider further mathematics as an option.

A LEVEL MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS

AS level Mathematics

AS mathematics works well alongside the study of other A level subjects, especially sciences, geography, economics and psychology. It builds on GCSE knowledge and extends into the fields of calculus, logarithms, vectors, mechanics and statistics amongst others. If students are considering studying a scientific degree course, then maintaining and developing their use of mathematics at a higher level is recommended.

AS LEVEL MATHEMATICS