Maths & Computer Science
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Mathematics is a popular and successful department with a high profile in the school. The subject has grown in popularity in recent years, with increasing numbers of students choosing to study Mathematics, and a significant proportion opting for Further Mathematics in the Sixth Form. Our primary aim is to stimulate, develop and maintain students’ curiosity, interest and enjoyment in mathematics, within an environment that encourages creative, independent thinking and enquiry.
In Blocks 3, 4 and 5, students are taught in five or six sets according to ability. Progress is carefully monitored through regular testing, weekly prep, and classwork.
The Block 3 Mathematics course reinforces core skills in number, algebra, mensuration and data handling, and marks the beginning of a three-year programme. All students are ultimately entered for the Edexcel International GCSE (IGCSE), which is taken in the summer of Block 5. Prep is set and collected weekly, and students sit an end-of-year school examination in June.
Block 3 students are required to have a scientific calculator, either the Casio fx-83CW or the more advanced fx-991CW. As all IGCSE Mathematics exams are calculator-based, it is important that students become confident using their chosen model early in the course. Both calculators support the development of essential skills in number, algebra and data handling, with the fx-991CW offering additional functionality for those who may benefit from it.
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Head of Faculty
James Welham
Heads of Department
James Welham, Head of Maths
Jonathan Morton, Head of Computer Studies