Mathematics

Our aim is to help students develop a deep conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and confidence in mathematics. We aim to develop students who can not only calculate like mathematicians but also talk and reason like mathematicians, using precise language to explain, justify, and generalise their thinking. We aspire to make every lesson a place where challenge and mathematical beauty coexist, inspiring curiosity and a lifelong appreciation of the subject. For staff, we aim to maintain sustainable workloads through clear systems while investing in professional development to remain at the forefront of research-informed practice. Ultimately, we want all students to leave us as competent and confident mathematicians, fully prepared for the next steps in their journey - whether that is A-level mathematics, higher education, or careers that demand analytical thinking and problem-solving.

We deliver a carefully sequenced, knowledge-rich curriculum across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5 that prioritises deep conceptual understanding over rote memorisation. Our approach fully embraces the NCETM’s Essence of Mathematics Teaching for Mastery and the Five Big Ideas in Teaching for Mastery. Lessons follow a consistent learning cycle that ensures clarity, structure, and challenge for all students, with frequent opportunities to develop fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills. Oracy and disciplinary literacy are embedded so that students can communicate and reason mathematically with precision. We also use regular low-stakes assessments, feedback cycles, and data analysis to check the quality of implementation and refine our teaching, ensuring every student achieves their potential.

We are proud of our unwavering belief that everyone can be a mathematician and of the inclusive, academically ambitious culture we have built. Our curriculum and teaching have been recognised by the EMS Maths Hub, and we regularly share best practice with schools and leaders across the region. We are proud that our students consistently achieve excellent outcomes and develop a genuine love of mathematics. Our Progress 8 score is consistently above +0.5, placing us significantly above the national average, and a high proportion of our students go on to study mathematics at A-level and beyond. We are equally proud of our commitment to equity: breaking down barriers for disadvantaged and SEND students so that every learner can access the richness of mathematics. Above all, we value the culture of collaboration, curiosity, and relentless improvement that defines our department.