Mathematics
In Mathematics, the content of the course is secondary to the skills we learn. Enabling the students to learn through problem-solving prepares them for challenges outside the classroom (as well as becoming creative mathematicians).
Mathematics at Monkton is very popular. Each pupil is encouraged to develop a positive attitude to mathematics and to work with confidence, skill and enjoyment. Mathematics is taught in our state-of-the-art Maths and Science Centre which has exceptional teaching aids, a lecture/IT theatre and resource rooms.
GCSE Maths
Taking Maths iGCSE, one of our core subjects opens doors to many future careers, not just traditionally “mathsy” ones. It sharpens your problem-solving and logical thinking skills, and in addition, it’s a qualification that employers and universities really value highly – it shows you can handle a challenge!
What will I learn at GCSE?
You will build a solid foundation in essential topics like algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. You’ll learn how to work with equations, understand shapes and space, analyse data, and figure out the chances of things happening. These skills aren’t just abstract ideas; they will help you make sense of the world around you, from budgeting to understanding scientific information. It’s about gaining tools for logical thinking and problem-solving in a mathematical context.
How is the course structured?
We study the IGCSE Edexcel course. This is split into four areas: number, algebra, geometry, statistics. We have constructed a spiral curriculum, so that topics are revisited regularly and in increasing depth. For gifted pupils extension takes the form of UKMT Maths Challenge competitions enrichment and accelerated learning and the completion of mentoring scheme problems. Selected pupils also have the opportunity to take Further Maths GCSE.
Provision for pupils requiring learning support takes the form of two timetabled Extra Maths lessons a week, voluntary attendance of three after-school workshops plus access to a private tutor – at an additional cost.
How is the course examined?
Pupils sit two exams at the end of year 11, each a two-hour calculator paper. Some students may take the Foundation Tier entry in November of Year 11 with the expectation that they will then take the Higher Tier entry in June. The highest set also study the Further Maths GCSE (AQA), with an examiation typically taken in June of Year 11. This prepares students well for A-level Maths and Further Maths by consolidating the harder topics from GCSE as well as exposing them to new exciting topics such as matrices and the binomial expansion.
A Level Mathematics
Maths is a fantastic course for developing analytical and logical thinking skills. Covering a wide variety of topics, students will learn how to solve complex, multi stage, problems carefully and accurately.
What will I learn at A level?
Primarily you will learn the skills to think logically and solve complex problems using your creativity. However the nuts and bolts of the course includes calculus, trigonometry, geometry, graphical work, algebra, statistics and mechanics.
How is the course structured?
You will have two teachers: one for Pure Mathematics and one for Applied Mathematics (Statistics and Mechanics). Two thirds of the course is Pure, one sixth Statistics and one sixth Mechanics.
How is the course examined?
There are three exams at the end of Year 13. Two for Pure Mathematics and one for Applied Mathematics.
What could I do next?
Maths is a highly valued A level from which you can go on to study many different courses. It is useful not only for STEM subjects, but for Humanities, the Arts and Architecture. The Statistics side of the course helps with everything from Geography to Psychology. Maths will set you up for life!
A Level Further Mathematics
If the challenge of studying twice the amount of Maths in Year 12, compared to a single mathematician, excites you, then the Further Maths course is the one for you. (And, quite frankly, it is a fascinating course – you have chosen wisely.)
What will I learn at A level?
Lots and lots of Maths! You will complete the entire Single Maths course in one year, followed by an additional A Level in Further Maths in Year 13. Topics will include complex numbers, matrices, calculus, proofs and more. On top of this students will study further Mechanics and Statistics.
How is the course structured?
In Year 12 the split will be the same as that experienced by the single mathematicians i.e. two thirds Pure and one third a combined Statistics and Mechanics course. In Year 13 it is one half Pure and one half Applied Mathematics.
How is the course examined?
There are three exams in Year 13 taken for the Single Mathematics A Level. For the Further Mathematics A Level there are two Pure exams and two Applied exams, equally weighted.
What could I do next?
Further Mathematics is required by most top universities as a prerequisite to studying Mathematics. In addition it is loved by engineering, economics or science-based departments, or it can simply be used as a calling card for elite mathematicians.