Maths

Subject Info

Mathematics is fundamental to life in the sense that its unique language and forms of notation help us to calculate, estimate and problem-solve. It also informs many of the choices and decisions we make about real-life issues and challenges and the actions that we subsequently take.

We aim to challenge and encourage students to succeed in their Mathematics by making it fun and interesting. The Maths department uses the latest technology and methods to bring the teaching and learning of Maths to life. These include the MyMaths website and the use of our interactive whiteboards and computer suites.

Through engagement with issues which have current and future relevance to young people we as a department strive to help pupils see the relevance of mathematics and financial capability to help inform the choices and decisions that will be made in real-life issues and challenges.

Junior School Maths

At Key stage 3 pupils are streamed on the basis of results obtained in English and Mathematics tests taken. Pupils will follow the Northern Ireland Curriculum for Mathematics and Numeracy which includes Financial Capability.

During Key Stage 3 the following areas of maths will be covered Number, Algebra, Geometry and Statistics. Pupils will be given the opportunity to enter maths competitions, complete puzzles and use ICT during their maths classes. Active learning techniques and a variety of teaching methods are used and pupils will be regularly assessed.

Year 8 to 10 are important years when students begin looking at topics that will form the basis for and be of great value to them during their GCSE years.

Senior School Maths

This scheme incorporates a differentiated system of assessment based on terminal examination papers taken at the end of year 11 and 12. This specification has 2 tiers of entry: Foundation (M1 M5 or M2 M6) and Higher (M3 M7 or M4 M8). Each combination of units covers Number, Algebra, Geometry, Measures and Handling data in different depths. The following combinations of grades are available.

Pupils will be entered into the combination that is most suitable to their abilities.

GCSE Further Maths

This examination is intended to cater for those candidates who require knowledge beyond that provided by the GCSE High Tier and who are capable of working beyond the limits of the existing GCSE Mathematics syllabus. It is often a prerequisite for pupils considering ‘A’ or ‘AS’ GCE level.  There is no controlled assessment in this subject. Students must complete the mandatory unit (Unit 1 Pure Mathematics) and two of the three optional units (Unit 2 Mechanics, Unit 3 Statistics and Unit 4 Discrete and Decision Mathematics).