Maths

 The maths department is committed to ensuring that the maths curriculum is accessible to pupils of all levels through a combination of inspirational teaching, good clear explanations, and a relentless focus on high standards.  This year, 54% of students in Year 11 passed at A*-C.  48% of students who sat higher tier gained either an A or A* grade, well above the national average (approximately double).   Overall 18% of students gained either an A or A*.

The students are set by ability on entry and follow a 2 year Key Stage 3 curriculum.  During this time they are regularly assessed to determine progress.  Interventions are undertaken on an individual basis to try to consolidate students’ understanding.

Students commence their GCSE course of study at the beginning of Year 9 and follow the AQA modular syllabus.  Students take examinations in the June of Year 9, March of Year 10 and March of Year 11.  They are offered the chance to re-take any examinations that do not meet the school’s challenging internal targets.  The department has plans to offer a statistics GCSE also for those who complete their maths GCSE early.

The department comprises 4 specialist maths rooms, 3 of which are equipped with Promethean Interactive Whiteboards.  Students are engaged in a variety of activities during lessons tailored to meet all learning styles.  Work is often individualised, particularly at the lower end of the ability range, with one-to-one support to boost pupils’ grades.  Coaching is offered to pupils at all levels - e.g. GCSE support and APP (to boost numeracy skills) in year 7. 

The maths curriculum at Burnholme offers students a good grounding for further study; it has proved a popular choice of A level subject amongst former Burnholme pupils.