Maths

Curriculum Summary

Please click on the link below to access the Maths Curriculum Summary:

The Maths Curriculum at SVHS meets, and in some cases exceeds, the requirements as set out in the National Curriculum for Maths at KS3 and KS4.

Subject Intent

We have designed our curriculum in mathematics with two aims in mind: to ensure that all students have the best possible chance of success in our subject, and enjoy learning whilst doing it. These two aims are equally important, as we feel they are crucial to developing a lifelong love of the subject. Evidence shows students who develop strong mathematical confidence are far more likely to become happy and successful adults, on average earn more, and it increases their social mobility.

Our curriculum is increasingly designed with cross curricular links in mind, and we are working with the Science and Geography department amongst others to ensure students can apply their mathematical knowledge to other subjects. We aim to show that mathematics can be applied across many subjects, and that it has provided the solution to some of history’s most intriguing problems.

We are also increasing our focus on careers, and showing students the wide variety of jobs that a good level of mathematics supports. The effect of poor numeracy amongst adults is well documented, costing the UK economy an estimated £20 billion per year, and the mathematics department are committed to helping students stand shoulder to shoulder with the best.

Excellence Statement

We believe in Maths that there are five key ingredients to a successful mathematician for all abilities and ages. Students who are excellent mathematicians show the following traits:

Understanding – Maths is a network of linked ideas, and doesn’t exist as a series of simply individual skills. The best mathematicians can connect new mathematical thinking to what they already know and understand.
Tools - Students have their own toolkit, full of previously learnt skills that they can choose from to help them solve problems. Practising using these tools helps them become a better mathematician.
Problem solving - Problem solving is a crucial part of Maths, and helps students apply mathematical knowledge into the wider world. Students use their understanding, skills and reasoning to help them work towards solutions
Reasoning - Maths is logical. Not only can students convince themselves that their thinking is correct, with precise mathematical language and sound arguments, but they can explain their reasoning to others.
Attitude - Maths makes sense and is worth spending time on. Students enjoy Maths and become better at it by persevering, gaining pleasure from challenging themselves.

Qualifications and Revision Materials

Edexcel GCSE Mathematics (Higher)

OCR GCSE Mathematics (Foundation)