Mathematics

We understand the individual needs of each pupil

Success in mathematics is achieved at Colet Court because we understand the individual needs of the boys. We extend the talented pupils whilst offering support to those who require it. This enables all boys to feel confident and to reach their full potential. The subject is taught with an appreciation that we are not solely preparing pupils for examination success. Although calculators may be used in most public examinations the importance of non-calculator methods is understood, taught and tested at every level. As your son progresses through the school he will do some of his mathematical studies in an ICT suite where he will be taught to use a computer to solve mathematical problems. The importance of a sound understanding of basic skills cannot be over emphasised and at Colet Court we are unusual in only having Mathematics specialists in properly equipped classrooms teaching the boys from age nine onwards.

We are very aware that children mature at different stages and in the curriculum there is not only the flexibility to extend our most able pupils, but also a system of "Maths Clinics" and specialist ICT programs to reinforce the basic skills and to boost confidence when necessary.

Lower First and First Year

In the early years Mathematics is taught by each FormTeacher and is taught across the curriculum wherever possible. The value of sound mental arithmetic is emphasised. The boys are taught and tested on non-calculator methods.

Second Year

Your son is still taught in his Form but by a mathematics specialist rather than his Form Teacher. Every child in the class follows a core syllabus but this has the flexibility to allow the more able pupils to extend their experience and tackle more advanced problem solving, whilst giving others more time to consolidate their basic skills. The course centres around arithmetical topics, with much practical work involving measurement, and problem solving skills are developed further. Geometry and statistics are also studied, but with emphasis on practical work and links to Geography and Science.

Third Year

Each form is paired with another and setting is introduced for Maths. We therefore have two parallel set 1 and two parallel set 2 groups. All sets follow the same syllabus but the set 1 pupils do more extension work above the core syllabus. Set 2 spend more time on each topic, they will still do some extension work, but not as much as the higher sets.

In the Third Year the boys are introduced to "mathematical" topics rather than "arithmetical" topics. These include formal geometry and algebra. They also start to use a computer as part of their mathematics course. Mental arithmetic is extended to include calculations with fractions and decimals, and solving numerical and geometrical problems mentally. Calculators are introduced and the boys are taught to use them efficiently during problem solving sessions. Boys are given the opportunity to extend and apply their knowledge by taking part in the Primary Maths Challenge.

Fourth and Fifth Year

The setting continues in to the Fourth and Fifth Years but the setting is constantly monitored and a boy will change sets if it is felt that he would cope better with a faster or slower pace.

In the Fourth Year the syllabus moves into more advanced numerical topics, studies further algebra and the use of algebra to solve problems, more formal geometry and transformation geometry and introduces statistical analysis.

In the Fifth Year the boys are prepared for the relevant examinations. Mock examinations are taken in January. The main exams which are set by St. Paul's School are sat in June. The top two sets take an extension paper while the other two sets sit a paper which is of the same standard as Common Entrance. We have high expectations of all of the boys and would expect a significant proportion of the boys in the lower sets to still achieve an A grade in their exam to St. Paul's.

Success in mathematics is achieved at Colet Court because we understand the individual needs of the boys. We extend the talented pupils whilst offering support to those who require it. This enables all boys to feel confident and to reach their full potential.