Years 7-8

At Key Stage Three, the main textbooks used are Essential Mathematics, published by Elmwood Press.  We use Books 7,7(i), 8 and 8(i), the (i) books being of a slightly lower standard than the others.  From 2007, we also introduced the (f) books to cater for our pupils who find their maths really difficult.  All these books are well supplemented by photocopyable resources and other worksheets.  All classes in each year group are taught by specialist Mathematics teachers, who have a wealth of experience of teaching this age of pupils.

Pupils are prepared for Common Entrance at 13+ for entry to Independent Schools, or for Public School Scholarship examinations. Occasionally, for whatever reason, children are prepared for other exams, or indeed may be withdrawn from the CE programme for educational reasons, in liaison with our LSU.  Pupils in the upper ability range are stretched by entering various maths challenges throughout the year, both individual and team.

Each term, Years Seven and Eight study one topic using ICT facilities. These topics include aspects of data handling, scatter diagrams and other graphs and databases; algebra including trial and improvement methods for solving equations (higher sets only) and shape and measures using Logo programs to investigate angles turned in polygons.  Interactive whiteboards and other electronic resources are increasingly used to assist and supplement the teaching of the curriculum.