Mathematics
KEY STAGE 3
Key Stage 3 bridges the gap between the foundations set at Key Stage 2 and the challenge of the new GCSE syllabus at Key Stage 4. The programme of study develops students’ confidence and thinking skills in an increasing range of methods and techniques.
Our Goal: “At Huxlow every individual is empowered to fulfil their potential”
To fulfil your potential at Key Stage 3 you should:
- Pay attention in lessons and participate fully in class discussions and activities
- Attempt your homework as soon as it is set so that any issues can be resolved prior to the due date
- Hand in your homework on time and attempted to the best of your ability
- Use your initiative to utilise the resources at your disposal to help yourself overcome any difficulties
- Independently revise for assessments using your class notes and online/interactive resources
- Create neat, clear, summary revision notes at the end of each unit
- Approach your peers and teacher for help when needed.
KEY STAGE 4
Key Stage 4 encompasses Years 9, 10 and 11 and builds upon the foundations learnt in Key Stage 3. The curriculum is split into 6 broad categories:
- Number
- Algebra
- Ratio, proportion and rates of change
- Statistics
- Probability
- Geometry and measures
Students are entered into either foundation or higher tier exams and both currently use the Edexcel exam board. This should be kept in mind when purchasing revision materials. The aim of the course is to prepare pupils for the next stage of their lives, by ensuring they achieve a qualification which opens doors for their future. There is also an opportunity for the most able to study Additional Maths, which is done in after school sessions.
Maths Curriculum Year 9 (Foundation)
Maths Curriculum Year 9 (Higher)
Maths Curriculum Year 10 (Foundation)
Maths Curriculum Year 10 (Higher)
Our values #2: “Everyone is ambitious and welcomes the challenge of being the best they can”
To be the best you can be at Key Stage 4 you should:
- Be an active and engaged member of the class who participates fully
- Manage your homework effectively to ensure timely completion
- Utilise online resources to revise areas of weakness highlighted from assessments
- Independently revise for assessments using your class notes and online/interactive resources
- Comply with the department’s presentation policy
- Bring all equipment to lesson so you are fully prepared to learn
- Approach your peers and teacher for help when required
- Attend after school support sessions.
ASSESSMENT
Throughout Key Stage 3, each term will have a synoptic test known as RATE, except term 6 where students will take an end of year assessment.
Pupils are routinely assessed in Key Stage 4 by a combination of rigorous exams and teacher assessment. In Year 9, pupils complete one 50 mark exam on a termly basis. The exams are created using past GCSE exam questions so that our pupils are familiar with the exam format. In Year 10 and 11, pupils complete past GCSE exam papers which consist of 80 marks. However, at the end of each year they are expected to complete a full set of 3 exam papers which include one non-calculator paper and two calculator papers.
At the end of Year 11, all pupils take GCSE Mathematics. Pupils doing foundation tier can achieve grade 1-5 whilst pupils doing higher tier can achieve grades 4-9.
WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MATHS QUALIFICATION?
A strong Maths pass is pivotal to the future of young people, as the majority of employers expect a grade of 4 or above in order to be employable. However, a good Maths qualification can also provide a route to more specific careers such as mechanics, engineering, meteorology, video game developing and finance. Regardless of your chosen career path, Maths will play a vital role in providing you with opportunities to do what you want with your future.
KEY STAGE 5
Huxlow Science College, The Ferrers School and Rushden Academy work together to create a unique post-16 learning community, The East Northamptonshire College (TENC). For details of the full range of courses and opportunities available, please visit www.tenconline.co.uk
ENRICHMENT OPPORTUNITIES
- Key Stage 4 after school support sessions
- Maths Clubs eg. Cypher Club
DEPARTMENT STAFF
Mr R King - Learning Leader for Mathematics
Mr S Brewin - Assistant Learning Leader for Mathematics KS4
Mr M Coutts - Teacher of Mathematics
Ms D Graham - Teacher of Mathematics
Mr C Darnbrook - Teacher of Mathematics
Mrs J Brabant - Maths HLTA
Miss C Wood - Deputy Headteacher, Teacher of Mathematics
FURTHER INFORMATION
If you would like to find out more about the Maths curriculum, please contact Mr R King, Learning Leader for Maths
- By phone: 01933 650496
- By email: r.king@huxlow.northants.sch.uk