Mathematics and Numeracy Curriculum

In Y7 and Y8 learners are working on our new schemes of learning in-line with the new Curriculum for Wales. Learners begin with a data handling transition topic which was co-written with Y6 teachers in our cluster schools of Lliswerry, Maindee, Somerton and St Andrews. Learners then experience a variety of skills including number, algebra, geometry and measures, probability and problem-solving and each area we study includes opportunities to apply skills to authentic, real-life contexts.

In Y9 we begin our GCSE Mathematics and Numeracy courses, allowing learners to complete the course by the end of Y10 and giving time in Y11 to close gaps in subject knowledge and prepare for the final exams. The learners study the same areas as in Y7 and Y8 and the numeracy exam provides the opportunity for learners to show their skills in real-life contexts. At present there are 3 tiers of entry for GCSE, Higher Tier (A* - C), Intermediate Tier (B – E) and Foundation Tier (D – G). We also have an entry level course for learners who find using their Maths skills challenging to ensure every learner can complete Y11 with a Maths-based qualification. However, by the time your child reaches Y11, we are expecting GCSE Mathematics and Numeracy to look different as the new Curriculum for Wales moves through Y9, Y10 and Y11 and we will keep you updated with changes when they happen.

In Y12 and Y13, learners can choose to study A Level Mathematics, which is a well-respected course for learners to gain access to university. We build on GCSE skills and learners study ‘pure’ maths where they learn all the skills and techniques needed and ‘applied’ maths, where they use the skills to model situations in real-life contexts.

Teaching and Learning

All classrooms in the Mathematics and Numeracy team have access to interactive whiteboards and we have worked hard over a number of years to develop high quality lessons where learners participate well and make good progress. We build excellent relationships with learners and this helps learners to enjoy their Mathematics and Numeracy lessons. We have common, interactive displays in all classrooms, so learners feel comfortable no matter which teacher they have and are able to receive the same visual support in any classroom. We have our own set of bookable Chromebooks to support learners in assessment for learning, research, close the gap activities and developing their digital skills through blended learning and google classroom tasks. We use the website www.hegartymaths.com with learners for homework, independent revision, flipped learning and close the gap tasks.

Assessment and Feedback

We have developed and refined our assessment and feedback processes in Mathematics and Numeracy over several years. Learners receive individual, bespoke feedback at the end of every topic to ensure they know what they have done well and what they need to do to close the gaps in subject knowledge and skills. In our half termly assessments, we do an analysis of learners’ answers by question and again provide the opportunity to close gaps in their knowledge and skills. We use the Hegarty Maths platform as an effective tool for closing gaps as learners only attempt the identified tasks they need. Learners have video clip support to show how to answer the questions and practice questions to show the improvement in their skills