Mathematics

In the Mathematics department we aim to inspire an interest in mathematics and to kindle an awareness of the beauty of mathematics. We aim to develop confidence in a wide range of mathematical skills and to teach the mathematical skills required in future life. We also wish to prepare pupils fully for public examinations in Mathematics and to reinforce the mathematical requirements of other subjects. In short we aim to encourage all pupils to pursue mathematics to their full potential.

Our schemes of work are guided by, though not prescriptively, the structure of the National Curriculum and the National Numeracy strategy.

At ages 14, 15 and 16, all pupils follow the IGCSE Edexcel course and one set will undertake this examination two terms early in November of Year 11, having been accelerated through the course from Year 7. The examinations do not include any coursework element nor do they include a non-calculator paper but investigative and non-calculator skills are taught nevertheless where deemed appropriate, to reinforce teaching and learning.

Approximately ninety pupils a year choose to study mathematics in the VI Form. AS and A levels in Mathematics and Further Mathematics are obtained by accumulating components from the Edexcel Modular Course, (3 components for AS maths, 6 for A level maths, 9 for A level maths with AS further maths and 12 for A level maths with A level further maths).

Primarily designed for potential Mathematics/Engineering/Physics graduates (although all these courses are accessible without it), Further Mathematics is usually taken by our strongest A Level students. It is a separate option from mathematics and therefore provides pupils with the opportunity to complete an A level in Mathematics in one year with the option of completing a second A level in further mathematics in the second year of the VI Form.

Pupils who are interested in pursuing mathematics or a related course at Oxford or Cambridge universities, or indeed any other university are assisted in their preparation through sessions with Mr Chaudhary – the Head of Mathematics and other staff. There has been much success here in recent years.

Pupils are also encouraged to enter national mathematics competitions such as the Senior, Intermediate and Primary Mathematics Challenges. Many pupils go on to qualify for the follow up competitions and we have enjoyed recent success in the Mathematics Olympiad with one of our pupils being awarded a silver medal.

Our participation in the Hans Woyda Inter-Schools Mathematics Quiz competition has also been highly successful over recent years. The team reached the semi-final stage of this prestigious competition last year and faced some of the best schools in the country including St Paul’s and Westminster.

VI Form Mathematics has always been a very popular option at Chigwell School and continues to produce excellent results. Typically 90% of A level students achieve an A or B grade.

Download the Mathematics Department Articles from The Chigwellian 2008-2009

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