Mathematics
Key Stage 3
Our KS3 classes are set according to ability over 4 sets. This happens from when the pupils join us in Year 7. We cover a range of topics spanning Algebra, Number, Shape & Space, and Data Handling. The scheme of work is divided up into modules of work each lasting approximately three weeks.
Each class has regular tests throughout the year to assess the pupils’ progress and understanding of the topics. Our top sets in Year 7 and 8 are accelerated and currently complete the KS3 Course in two years. The top sets in Year 9 then complete the GCSE Statistics course in one year. In the summer of 2012 65% of the pupils attained grades A* or A. These students have produced some incredible results.
Students who need help with revision can use many resources for help:
Ask your Maths teacher for the school login and password.
Key Stage 4
Our KS4 classes are set according to ability over 5 sets. Over Years 10 and 11 they complete the Linked Pair of GCSEs in Maths through Edexcel. This means that if successful pupils will achieve two GCSE Maths Grades at the end of Year 11. This course is split into Methods and Applications. The Applications papers are designed to give more real life contexts to Maths questions.
The course is split into four exams. The pupils will take two exams in November of Year 11, and the remaining two in June of Year 11. From September 2012 Year 10 students will be expected to take Applications 1 and Applications 2 in November of their Year 11 studies and then Methods 1 and Methods 2 examination papers will be taken in the summer of Year 11.
These four examinations will lead to two GCSEs in Mathematics. This is not a dual award it is two separate GCSE qualifications. More information about this pilot qualification can be found from the Edexcel website.
Past papers and other course documents can be found at:
Key Stage 5
AS Maths and Further Maths and A Level Maths and Further Maths can be taken atHelsbyHigh School. The courses followed are the MEI Maths courses examined through the OCR examination board.
We currently have three A level Maths classes and one A Level Further Maths class running in each year group. In Year 12 Maths AS Level consists of three modules; two core modules (C1 and C2) and one Statistics module (S1). Currently C1 is examined in January of Year 12 and C2 and S1 are examined in the summer of Year 12.
AS Further Maths in Year 12 consists of four modules; D1, M1, FP1 and M2. D1 and M1 are examined in January of Year 12 and M2 and FP1 are examined in the summer of Year 12. Three of these modules, one of which has to be FP1 comprise AS Further Maths.
A Level Maths consists of two more core modules and one extra applied module. Currently C3 and M1 are examined in January of Year 12 and C4 is examined in the summer of Year 13. A Level Further Mathematicians will take FP2 in January of Year 13 and DE and M3 will be taken in the summer of Year 13.
Course requirements:
In order to be able to take AS Maths we would expect students to obtain at least grade B at GCSE Maths.
Extra information about the course can be obtained from:
Past papers and other course documents can be found at:
Useful Links
- Maths Watch User Guide (Adobe PDF Document, 607kb)
- http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/ks3bitesize/maths/
- http://www.mymaths.co.uk/
- http://www.edexcel.com/quals/pilots/linked-pair-pilot/Pages/default.aspx
- http://www.mei.org.uk/
Enrichment Opportunities
UKMT Challenges take place on three occasions per year. During November there is the Senior Team challenge at Manchester University. Also during November the Senior Team individual challenges are taken.
During February there will be the Intermediate Individual Challenge. This will be taken by pupils from Years 9, 10 and 11.
During April there will be the Junior Individual challenge. This will be taken by pupils from Years 7 and 8.
There will also be an opportunity in March for an Intermediate team from Years 8 and 9 to take part in the team challenge at Manchester University.
Department Team
Head of Department:
- Mrs C A Sharp
- Mr I Magill (Second in Department)
- Miss L Williams (Third in Department)
Departmental Staff:
- Mrs D Bellis
- Miss K Callaghan
- Mr S Hale (Head of Year 10)
- Mr A Pollitt
- Miss P Tate
- Mrs A Moore
- Mrs N Ramage.
