Department of Mathematics
Curriculum Leader:
Mrs. Debbie Llewellyn (dllewellyn@stmichaels.bhcet.org.uk)
Lead Practitioners:
Mrs Sarah Hanson
Mr Chris Legg
Departmental staff:
Miss Rachel Dixon
Mrs Emily McCarten
Mrs Kirsty Huxley
Mrs Sarah Chapman
Mr Kevin Herron
Miss Ciaran Butterworth
Mrs Clair Bingham
Subject Background:
Welcome to the Mathematics curriculum information zone. As a core subject we follow the national curriculum covering the 5 main strands of Number, Algebra, Ratio and Proportion, Geometry and Statistics. Our aim is to develop student fluency in their math’s skills then extend these skills to deepen their understanding of key concepts. In KS3 we use the Kangaroo Maths scheme of work which builds on the KS2 curriculum. In Year 7 students are taught in mixed ability groups to ensure students are both supported and challenged in the next stage of their learning.
In KS4 we use the Just Maths scheme of work, this course consolidates KS3 learning and develops the new knowledge needed for the GCSE examinations. We have high expectations for all our students and no decisions are made about tiers of entry for these examinations until the start of year 11. Through their study, students will acquire tools to solve problems; analysing, reasoning, modelling, investigating, justifying and making connections. Students will develop an understanding of mathematical structures and connections, building resilience and perseverance as they learn.
Across all year groups students will be set homework once a week through the online learning platform Sparx Maths. This programme provides relevant homework to support student progress. Each task set has a video to help students and parents if they are unsure of how to complete the questions, students also receive instant feedback on their work.
Outside of the classroom students are given a variety of opportunities to extend their skills and see mathematics being used in the real world. Each year we enter students to the UKMT Mathematics challenges competing with students across the country. We attend lectures and workshops at local universities for all ability ranges and actively participate in World Number day and Pi day.