Our Staff in the Maths Department

Michael White - Head of Maths

• Cath Rowlands - Key Stage 4 Co-ordinator
• David Berriman - Head of Key Stage 3 Maths
• Karen Pearce - Advanced Skills Teacher
• Chris Margetts
• Jamie Moxom
• Dr Rachel Godwin
• Steve Horner – Part Time and Curriculum Manager

After a successful year in 2010-11 the aim is to build on our 69% grades A-C at GCSE in 2011. 

Maths at KS3 and KS4 is taught in sets covering the full range of abilities.

At present Year 7 are set across two parallel populations with Year 8-10 set across the respective year group and year 11 are also taught in two parallel populations however it is anticipated that they will also be set across the year group in the future

The emphasis is at KS3 is a thematic approach in teaching mathematics so that students can follow the links between topics. There is regular assessment using KS3 testing materials and more open-ended tasks.

At KS4, students are entered for the OCR GCSE examinations. At present set 1 in year 10 and 11 follow the linked pair GCSE taking the methods and applications and the remaining sets following the unitised specification A examination.

Students in the Sixth form study the OCR (MEI) ‘A’ level for Maths and Further Maths and AQA Use of Maths. The subject is well supported in the Sixth Form with many students then choosing to study Maths or allied subjects at University.

Students have been successful at the UKMT Maths Challenge at Junior, Intermediate and Senior levels. We have also entered the team challenge and recently represented Cornwall at the national finals in London. The Sixth Form maths students have regularly entered ‘Virtual Share’ challenge for which they are the defending champions.

 

The department enhances the curriculum for gifted and talented students and supports the maths masterclasses held at Truro College for Year 9 students.

The philosophy of the department is to enable every student to make progress and to reach their full potential in mathematics. Regular revision, booster and small group sessions are arranged to support students across the ability range.