Curriculum Area: Mathematics
Subject Leader: Miss Phung
Intent
Many pupils arrive at our provision with an individual learning journey as far as their education in mathematics is concerned. Knowing this, our curriculum is designed to provide our pupils with a holistic and inclusive education, and most importantly, a fresh start. We recognise the unique challenges that our pupils face and aim to foster a positive attitude towards mathematics, develop essential mathematical skills, and support their overall academic and personal growth. We strive to adopt a variety of teaching methods and strategies to support the needs of our pupils so they can enjoy and celebrate their successes in maths and be comfortable with challenges along the way.
Implementation
At Bailey Street, we implement an inclusive mathematics curriculum that meets the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum. In Key Stage 3, all pupils follow the National Curriculum aims and objectives throughout and AQA GCSE 3-Year Route Maps and Functional Skills Level 1 and Level 2 Route maps in Years 9 and above. These schemes provide a long and medium term plan for the Key Stage 3, Foundation and Higher GCSE course and are adapted to create a bespoke curriculum designed to meet the needs of our pupils. A series of stimulating lessons are planned with clear learning objectives and activities to develop fluency, reasoning, problem solving and the use of subject-specific vocabulary. This approach also allows opportunities for revisiting and retention, ensures full coverage of the national curriculum for mathematics, and provides a broad and balanced spread of all areas of the curriculum. There is pace and challenge for every class as each lesson draws on and extends prior learning so progress is fluid and rapid.
Our maths education is also implemented in the following key areas:
1. Tailored Learning Paths: We understand that every pupil has individual needs and learning styles. Our curriculum offers personalised learning paths that cater to diverse abilities and backgrounds. We identify knowledge gaps and scaffold learning where necessary; as well as provide differentiated instruction, visual aids, and accommodations to ensure that all pupils can access and excel in the mathematics curriculum.
2. Progressive Skill Development: Our curriculum is structured to build mathematical skills progressively. Starting with foundational concepts, pupils gradually advance to more complex topics, ensuring a solid grasp of fundamentals before moving forward.
3. Real-world Relevance: Maths is presented through real-world applications and scenarios, making it more relatable and applicable to everyday life. This approach helps pupils understand the practical significance of mathematical concepts and promotes deeper engagement.
4. Formative Assessment: Ongoing formative assessments help us understand our pupils’ progress and adjust teaching strategies accordingly. Live marking and regular feedback allow us to address challenges promptly and celebrate achievements, fostering a growth mindset.
Impact
Our teaching of, and curriculum for, mathematics leads to progress over time across all key stages relative to each individual pupil’s starting point at Bailey Street. Internal and external quality assurance also show pupils taking pride in their work, becoming more confident in their mathematical abilities, and enjoying the level of challenge and variety of learning activities. We also know our curriculum in mathematics is effectively working through Pupil Voice and the analysis of our yearly academic results. Our curriculum’s tailored approach and continuous assessment help bridge learning gaps, enabling students to make steady academic progress.
Every Year 11 pupil achieves at least one qualification in mathematics by the time they finish their education with us. Our curriculum opens doors to further education opportunities and vocational pathways.
Beyond mathematical concepts, pupils also acquire transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving and analytical skills. These skills are essential for future educational and vocational endeavours, setting them on a path toward a brighter future.