Subject Lead - Mrs Clare Sargeant, 01805 623531 Ext. 351.

Second in charge – Mr Sam Geeson, 01805 623531 Ext. 255.

Homework tasks for Years 7-10 will be set on Sparx Maths.

Please feel free to complete any independent learning task on Sparx to support your learning.

Intent

“Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think.” — Albert Einstein

• To build on prior knowledge and provide the building blocks to be able to proceed to study mathematics at a higher level
• To develop fluency of procedural methods before developing skills in application, reasoning and problem solving. 
• Provide pupils with rich knowledge, skills and deep conceptual understanding of mathematical concepts so that pupils can take advantage of the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life. ​ 
• Ensure pupils are highly mathematically literate, numerate and mathematically creative. ​ 
• We strive to provide opportunities to interleave mathematical topics both in maths and other curriculum areas 
• To inspire pupils to see the beauty of mathematics, to be confident mathematicians and recognise the opportunities it creates for them

GCSE Exam

Pupils will cover the AQA GCSE specification in Years 10 and 11. The pace may differ allowing time to embed key skills as required.

Our pupils are all entered for the GCSE in Maths, with a small number of pupils also taking Functional Skills at Entry level and Level 1. These pupils follow a dedicated curriculum in KS4.

To complement GCSE mathematics pupils also have the choice to study for GCSE Statistics in timetabled Enrichment and Intervention time.

This year some pupils are also studying for the FSMQ in Further Mathematics.

A GCSE course in mathematics will enable pupils to:

• develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts 
• acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems 
• reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences and draw conclusions 
• comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context. 

In practice this means for the exams:

The pupils are entered for either Foundation Tier or Higher Tier GCSE papers. The Foundation Tier covers grades 1 to 5 and the Higher Tier grades 4 to 9. Both tiers have 3 exams to sit, 2 with a calculator and 1 without the use of a calculator. 
Each paper is assessed in the same way 

• written exam: 1 hour 30 minutes 
• 80 marks 
• Each paper contributes 1/3 of the GCSE Mathematics assessment 

The questions are a mix of question styles, from short, single-mark questions to multi-step problems. The mathematical demand increases as a pupil progresses through the paper. Each paper is composed of a mix of all of the content covered in the GCSE qualification and each topic area contributes the following % of the overall assessment.

For those pupils undertaking Functional Skills Mathematics, we follow the Pearson Edexcel Scheme of Work.

Functional Skills qualifications provide reliable evidence of a learner’s achievements against demanding content that is relevant to the workplace. The qualifications assess learners’ underpinning subject knowledge and their ability to apply this knowledge to different contexts. Pupils will be entered at a level of their ability (Entry Level to Level 1). The assessment comprises two sections – a non-calculator section and a calculator section.

These qualifications give learners the opportunity to:

• Demonstrate a sound grasp of the underpinning skills and basics of mathematical problem-solving skills appropriate to the level, and the ability to apply mathematical thinking to solve problems in familiar situations
• Achieve a foundation for progression into employment
• Apply mathematical thinking to solve simple problems in familiar situations.

Learners who achieve Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills Qualifications in Mathematics at Entry Levels 1- to 3 can progress to Functional Skills Qualifications in Mathematics at Level 1, or further mathematical study, such as GCSE.

Wider Opportunities

Great Torrington School is committed to helping every student discover the full depth and excitement of mathematics. Beyond classroom learning, we encourage students to take part in enrichment opportunities designed to stretch their thinking, build confidence, and develop a genuine enjoyment of the subject.

Exeter Maths School – Maths Circles

We are proud to work closely with Exeter Maths School through their Maths Circles programme. Maths Circles bring together enthusiastic young mathematicians to explore challenging problems, discuss ideas, and develop advanced reasoning skills in a supportive environment.

Why we encourage participation:

• Deepens mathematical thinking: Students learn to approach unfamiliar problems creatively and logically.
• Builds resilience: Maths Circles emphasise perseverance and curiosity, helping students become more confident problem-solvers.
• Connects students with like‑minded peers: Working with others who enjoy maths fosters motivation and a sense of belonging.
• Prepares students for future study: The style of thinking developed in Maths Circles mirrors the approach used in A‑level and university mathematics.