Each learner is encouraged to think mathematically, questioning and investigating ideas.
Maths
Through song, games and a hands on practical approach using an abacus our youngest pupils begin to see how numbers are put together and broken down. We predominantly use a programme called Right Start Maths, which is based upon an Asian model and supplement this with White Rose. Right Start places a strong emphasis on non-counting strategies and enables young children to understand different mathematical processes in a visual and kinaesthetic way. New concepts are taught without a number ceiling so that once understood, a child can apply their understanding to any number. It is exciting for young children to work with big numbers and Right Start introduces hundreds and thousands early on. Being able to manipulate numbers and visualise patterns enhances understanding and confidence as well as aiding mental arithmetic.
We use the Right Start and white Rose Maths up through Year 3.
In Years 4, 5 and 6 pupils use the Galore Park Maths Scheme, which is supplemented by White Rose Maths. There continues to be a focus on mental maths in the Junior School.
Throughout the Junior School we generally have two maths groups in each class: core and extension. In the Senior school, this becomes two separate classes taught by different teachers. Maths is the only Senior School subject in which we have sets, as it is uniquely sensitive to being taught at the right level.
In the Senior School, pupils study a broad range of concepts through a variety of rich and engaging activities, following the Maths Enhancement Programme. Each learner is encouraged to think mathematically, questioning and investigating ideas within many different topic areas. The development of problem solving skills is prioritised, along with fluency in mathematical language, and key habits such as clear recording of working.
Differentiation of work and the individual attention possible in our small classes help promote enjoyment and a sense of achievement in Maths. This can involve a slower pace and ‘scaffolding’ of work for less confident pupils, whilst the more confident are stretched with extension work and extra-curricular content.
Where appropriate, pupils are encouraged to take part in the annual Junior and Intermediate Maths Challenges run by the UKMT. Pupils can also then be invited to take part in the follow on ‘Kangeroo’ and ‘Olympiad’ papers. Heritage also takes part in the Team Maths Challenge, which involves a day of fun and challenging mathematical competition against other local schools.
The IGCSE syllabus we follow is: Pearson Edexcel International GCSE Mathematics, Specification A (4MA1) (9-1). Pupils study the course over three years, beginning in Year 9.