Putney High School
Mathematics
"Do not worry about your difficulties in mathematics; I assure you that mine are greater." - Albert Einstein
The aim of the Mathematics Department is to provide girls with stimulating and interesting teaching so they can develop mathematical knowledge and skills - and to encourage their enjoyment of the subject as an exciting discipline in itself.
In particular, we strive to equip them with a good grounding in the basics, a confidence to explore mathematics no matter what their ability, the necessary skills to achieve academic excellence and an appreciation of the value and beauty of mathematics.
Key Stage 3
Students are taught in mixed ability classes during Year 7 and then in sets based on ability for years 8 – 11. We cover the content of the National Curriculum as a minimum and there are many opportunities for extension work and enrichment activities.
GCSE
There are two tiers of entry at GCSE – Higher and Foundation. All girls at Putney High School sit the higher tier which allows them to achieve grades A*, A, B, C or D. There are two examination papers - each of two hours in length. The first of these is a non-calculator examination but contains a variety of material, not just numerical work. Coursework is no longer required. We follow the Edexcel Mathematics A linear syllabus (1380).
Girls in set 1, which works at a faster pace, will have the opportunity to explore more difficult topics beyond GCSE in year 11. We anticipate the introduction of a second Maths GCSE qualification, intended to stretch and challenge pupils.
AS and A Level
Mathematics is one of the most popular subjects at A level at our school, where we also follow the Edexcel syllabus .
We study the six required modules in the following pattern:
Year 12 C1 C2 S1
Year 13 C3 C4 M1
There is always a strong up take for Further Maths and several girls have recently gone on to study Maths at leading universities.
Extension Activities
There is a popular Mathematics Club run for girls in all years and we also enter a team each year for the National Cipher Competition run by Southampton University. Girls also have the opportunity to enter the three National Maths Challenges with many going on to win gold certificates and progressing to the European Round. Each year it has become traditional to celebrate Pi Day in a variety of ways.
Finding Mathematics tough? We can arrange for an A level Maths student to mentor you as part of our Maths Direct Scheme. All the girls who have signed up really enjoy it!
