The Mathematics and Numeracy Department | Yr Ardan Mathemateg a Rhifedd

Department Leader: Mrs. R Powell

Departmental Vision | Gweledigaeth yr Adran

The Mathematics and Numeracy Department aspires to equip learners with the cross-curricular mathematical and numeracy skills necessary to succeed in education as well as their everyday life.

Intentions | Amcanion

Through the study of Mathematics and Numeracy, pupils will acquire the fundamental numeracy skills that underpin wider mathematical topics, enabling them to develop the skills required to take an active role in school and adult life. The curriculum is formed from a building block structure and is designed to give our pupils the confidence to apply and adapt a range of mathematical skills to new situations through the study of relevant topical themes.

Key Stage 3

Mathematics is taught in sets, based on pupil’s previous progress and baseline testing. Pupils progress is monitored closely and movements are made when pupils need additional support or challenge. The KS3 assessment process enables teachers to identify strengths and target areas, online resources such as Sparx are then used to support pupils develop specific skills.

KS3 is a vital stage in a pupil’s mathematical learning and hard work, rewarded with progress, makes the journey through KS4 much more straightforward.

Key Stage 4

GCSE Mathematics will build on the levels of mathematics expected at the end of KS3. It is one of the key subjects, necessary for enhancing job opportunities and career prospects. Many careers require a formal qualification in Mathematics namely Engineering, Banking, Business, Economics and Teaching.

GCSE Numeracy will have an emphasis on aspects of mathematics which are most relevant to learners functioning as informed twenty-first century citizens. It will prepare learners to become effective problem solvers, to make informed decisions about the use of technology and to manage their money.

Extra-Curricular

We offer a weekly lunchtime maths club where pupils have the opportunity to develop their problem solving and critical thinking skills.

We work very closely with the Further Maths Support Programme (Wales). A number of our pupils have been involved in a range of workshops such as Career Talks and Problem Solving activities. We have opportunities available for pupils to participate in their Saturday Masterclasses in Swansea University as well as A Level Sessions in Cardiff University.

To support our development in financial literacy, HSBC delivers workshops to all of our pupils throughout the year, supporting our LiFE qualification that a number of pupils complete.

To develop our Careers Work and Related Experiences (CWRE) across the Mathematics and Numeracy AoLE we have had the opportunity for Kier Construction to deliver topics to our Year 7 pupils to support the application of these mathematical topics.