Mathematics is a compulsory subject in Middle and Upper School, with all students completing an IGCSE in Mathematics by the end of Year 11. A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics are offered in the Sixth Form.
All year groups are in sets within mathematics to allow students to work at a pace which suits them. Support is given to students in their preparations for university entrance examinations, some for Mathematics courses at top universities and others to support their applications for subjects such as Physics, Engineering, Economics and Computing.
Mathematics is recognised as requiring a logical and rational approach as well as demanding dedication and determination to be successful. The department aims that students should become aware that mathematics is an interesting and enjoyable field in its own right; and also that it continues to be central to many diverse and important branches of endeavour in the modern world, whether scientific, financial or computational.
Mathematics is a very popular subject and the department is a lively place to study. All students are challenged by the Puzzle of the Fortnight and many take part in the UKMT Mathematics Challenges throughout the year.
IGCSE
The course consists of a wide range of topics including: number work (percentages, standard form, proportionality); algebraic work (expansion of brackets, rearranging formulas, sequences, calculus); spatial work (transformations, angles and area) and data handling topics (probability, averages and spread).
You will acquire and develop a variety of skills including problem solving and decision making. You will learn how to process information efficiently in order to follow strategies that lead to successful solutions and you will be able to present solutions within the context of a problem.
You will follow the Edexcel 9-1 IGCSE Mathematics course. This consists of two equally weighted papers each 2 hours in duration, both papers are calculator permitted.
A Level
You will follow the new Edexcel A Level Mathematics course. This will consist mainly of Pure Mathematics with elements of Statistics and Mechanics.
Pure Mathematics includes topics such as calculus, trigonometry, algebra and graphs. Statistics includes probability, data presentation and interpretation and hypothesis testing. Mechanics includes kinematics, forces and Newton’s Laws of motion.
Mathematics affords excellent opportunities to enhance your analytical and problem solving skills. In addition to the knowledge that you can apply to scientific problems, you acquire the logical skills to manage projects, organise events and even present legal arguments.
Assessment consists of three equally-weighted two hour papers, two of which are centred on Pure Mathematics with the third paper centred on Statistics and Mechanics.