Mathematics

The department has an aim to strike a balance between so-called ‘traditional’ and ‘modern’ techniques. Understanding mathematical concepts and ideas is important but they must be fully developed by constant practice of the mathematical skills and techniques required to give pupils confidence in their own ability.

The department is also concerned with the study of mathematics as an academic discipline in its own right and feel that it is as much a part of the educated person's curriculum as literature, music, etc. We seek to develop enjoyment and an appreciation of the beauty and power of the subject and feel that the in-depth study and constant mathematical practice that the pupils will encounter will give them skills that they can transfer to other areas.

Years 12 and 13: Mathematics is a popular subject at Advanced level and the Edexcel modular AS and Advanced level courses are offered. Their structure gives a great deal of flexibility in the amounts of pure mathematics, discrete mathematics, mechanics and statistics available.

An Advanced level pass in Mathematics is a qualification much sought after by many university departments.

For those students intending a future career involving the use of advanced mathematics, there is the possibility of studying Further Mathematics, thereby obtaining two Advanced level qualifications in the subject.

The Department also enters pupils for the Intermediate and Senior National Mathematics Contests and many Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards are received each year.