GCSE Further Mathematics
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Our Aims
In Nature’s infinite book of secrecy
The world we live in is the way it is because of Mathematics. Whether we get our techno-fun from a WAP mobile phone, a Playstation 4 or an MP3 player, it is ultimately the Mathematics behind the micro-technology that we have to thank for our 21st century toys. Our aim in the Mathematics Department is to pass on to our pupils the power and beauty of Mathematics as it appears in their world. We aim to give much more than a functional ability to deal with numbers. Pupils learn to think critically, analytically and tangentially in their problem solving and gain the ability to apply their Mathematical skills in unfamiliar contexts. Our hope is that pupils will find their Mathematics enjoyable as they surmount its challenges and (like the Soothsayer) unravel some its secrets.
Staff
Ms S McIlhatton
Head of Department
Ms S Ardis
Teacher
Dr G Brown
Teacher
Mr N Irwin
Teacher
Mrs P Cummings
Teacher
Mrs K McIntyre
Teacher
Miss A McMillen
Teacher
Mrs A Reynolds
Teacher
Dr C Scully
Teacher
Mr M Shields
Teacher
Dr S Springer
Teacher
Curriculum
GCSE
This course provides an opportunity to study Mathematics in greater depth. Pupils come face-to-face with some of the great leit-motifs of Mathematics for the first time, for example, calculus, non-commutative algebra, mechanics and statistics. We currently follow the CEA specification in which the final examination consists of two written papers each worth 50%.
Facilities & Resources
Mathematics is taught in the William Sillery building. We have data projection and audio-visual facilities, and use is made of pupil whiteboards. Each year pupils have the opportunity to use ICT in a Mathematical context, for example statistics in the Fourth Form and projectile motion in the Sixth Form.
Additional Information
Pupils are encouraged to broaden their Mathematics horizons and have various opportunities to do so as they pass through the school. Many of our pupils enter for the Mathematical Association’s Maths Challenges at junior, intermediate and senior level. We enter teams in the UKMT regional finals with great success to date. A number of pupils each year are selected for participation in the Villiers’ Park scheme. Potential Oxbridge candidates are given extra tuition in the department both to increase their Mathematical compass and to hone their interview skills.
