At Key Stage 3, students develop their mathematical knowledge, fluency and problem-solving skills through a broad range of topics and activities. The curriculum builds on Key Stage 2 learning and encourages students to reason logically, think systematically and make connections between different areas of mathematics.

We aim to develop:

• Fluency in mathematical skills
• Logical and mathematical reasoning
• Confidence in problem-solving

Students are encouraged to enjoy mathematics and develop curiosity and confidence in the subject.

Course Content

Across Years 7–9, students study the main strands of mathematics:

• Number
• Algebra
• Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
• Geometry and Measures
• Statistics
• Probability

What students will learn

Number
Developing computational skills and applying methods to a range of problems, including the use of calculators where appropriate.

Algebra
Understanding patterns and relationships, developing algebraic techniques and applying them to problem-solving.

Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
Working with proportional reasoning and applying it in real-life contexts.

Geometry and Measures
Exploring properties of shapes and using measurement in different contexts.

Statistics
Collecting, representing and interpreting data using a range of methods.

Probability
Understanding experimental and theoretical probability using diagrams and appropriate notation.

Across KS3, students follow a structured scheme of work designed to strengthen mathematical reasoning, highlight links between topics and develop independent, mastery-based learning in preparation for GCSE Mathematics.

All students follow the Edexcel GCSE (9–1) Mathematics (1MA1) specification. The course develops key mathematical skills across six main areas:

• Number
• Algebra
• Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
• Geometry and Measures
• Probability
• Statistics

Students are entered for the most appropriate tier of entry, with the possibility of moving between Foundation and Higher tiers where appropriate. Final tier decisions are made in Year 11.

Assessment

The qualification consists of three equally weighted written exams:

• Paper 1: Non-calculator (1 hour 30 minutes)
• Paper 2: Calculator (1 hour 30 minutes)
• Paper 3: Calculator (1 hour 30 minutes)

Each paper is worth 80 marks and includes a mix of question types in both mathematical and real-life contexts.

Grading

The course is graded on a 9–1 scale:

• Foundation Tier: Grades 1–5
• Higher Tier: Grades 4–9 (with Grade 3 allowed in some cases)

This qualification provides students with a strong foundation in mathematics, supporting progression to further study and a wide range of careers.

Exam Board: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-gcses/mathematics-2015.html

Core Maths is available as an alternative to A Level Mathematics and is suitable for students who achieve at least a grade 5 in GCSE Maths. It is a one-year course that is worth the same UCAS points as an AS qualification.

The course builds on GCSE Higher Tier content and focuses on applying mathematics to real-life, contextual problems. Students develop skills in interpreting information, using technology, and applying mathematical methods in practical situations.

Exam Board

Edexcel (Mathematics in Context)

Course Content

Applications of Statistics

• Averages and moving averages
• Measures of spread (standard deviation, interquartile range)
• Correlation and regression
• Sampling and data interpretation

Probability

• Tree diagrams and Venn diagrams
• Probability notation
• Risk analysis and decision-making

Linear Programming

• Optimisation using straight-line graphs
• Real-world applications in business, industry and engineering

Sequences and Growth

• Financial mathematics
• Population growth, epidemics and decay models (e.g. radioactive decay, earthquakes)

Why Study Core Maths?

Core Maths supports students in applying mathematical skills to other A Level subjects and real-world contexts. It is particularly useful for students studying:

• Psychology
• Economics
• Sciences
• Geography
• Business
• Computing / IT

It also supports progression to university courses and careers involving mathematical content, especially where data analysis and problem-solving are important.

Exam Board: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-mathematics-in-context/mathematics-in-context.html

A Level Mathematics builds on GCSE knowledge of algebra and geometry and develops advanced mathematical skills used in real-world contexts. Students study a combination of pure mathematics, statistics and mechanics, preparing them for further study in mathematics-based subjects.

Course Content

Pure Mathematics
Students study advanced topics including:

• Coordinate geometry
• Sequences and series
• Trigonometry (including radians and proofs)
• Exponentials and logarithms
• Differentiation and integration
• Numerical methods
• Vectors in 3D

Statistics

• Data handling and sampling
• Probability and statistical distributions
• Binomial and normal distributions
• Hypothesis testing

Mechanics

• Kinematics (motion)
• Forces and Newton’s Laws
• Moments
• Mathematical modelling of real-life situations

Skills Developed

Students will develop:

• Fluency in advanced mathematical techniques
• Logical and structured reasoning
• Confidence in solving complex problems
• Ability to work with abstract and symbolic ideas
• Skills relevant to science, engineering and wider problem-solving

Assessment

We follow the Edexcel specification.

A Level Mathematics is assessed through three written exams (each 2 hours, equally weighted):

• Paper 1: Pure Mathematics
• Paper 2: Pure Mathematics
• Paper 3: Statistics and Mechanics

All questions must be answered and calculators are permitted.

Further Mathematics

Further Mathematics builds on A Level Maths and explores more advanced concepts in greater depth. It must be studied alongside A Level Mathematics.

Assessment consists of four 1 hour 30 minute exams, each worth 25% of the qualification.

• Papers 1 & 2: Core Pure Mathematics
• Papers 3 & 4: Applied options

Progression and Careers

A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics are highly respected qualifications that support progression into degrees and careers in:

• Science and Engineering
• Medicine
• Business and Economics
• Geography and Data Science
• Design and Technology

These qualifications are valued by universities and employers for their strong analytical, problem-solving and reasoning skills.

Exam Board: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/edexcel-a-levels/mathematics-2017.html

The Mathematics department also offers a GCSE Programme of study in Statistics.

Further information on this course will appear at a later date, but in the meantime, please contact the department for more details.