Mathematics Department
The Importance of Mathematics
Mathematical thinking is important for all members of a modern society as a habit of mind for its use in the workplace, business and finance; and for personal decision-making. Mathematics is fundamental to national prosperity in providing tools for understanding science, engineering, technology and economics. It is essential in public decision-making and for participation in the knowledge economy.
Mathematics equips pupils with uniquely powerful ways to describe, analyse and change the world. It can stimulate moments of pleasure and wonder for all pupils when they solve a problem for the first time, discover a more elegant solution, or notice hidden connections. Pupils who are functional in mathematics and financially capable are able to think independently in applied and abstract ways, and can reason, solve problems and assess risk.
Mathematics is a creative discipline. The language of mathematics is international. The subject transcends cultural boundaries and its importance is universally recognised. Mathematics has developed over time as a means of solving problems and also for its own sake.
(The National Curriculum, preface to the programme of study: Mathematics)
Departmental Aim
The aim of the Department is to build girls’ confidence and to enable girls to develop enthusiasm for and enjoyment of the subject. Our purpose is to develop each pupil’s mathematical ability to the highest possible level, to foster an interest in the subject and to encourage pupils to see the relevance and importance of mathematics in everyday life. The courses followed at The Abbey provide girls with the opportunity to extend their problem solving skills and to develop clear reasoning and logical thought.
The Department seeks to maintain high standards in the teaching and learning of mathematics by working together as a team to bring out the best in all pupils, in the context of the whole school aims and objectives.
Mathematics is compulsory to GCSE and is set according to ability from Year 8. A variety of courses are offered in the Sixth Form up to Further Mathematics, university entrance and STEP. The department benefits from a committed, well qualified and approachable staff who are generous with their time to help girls outside lessons. This subject is a popular choice in the Sixth Form with a good uptake and excellent examination results.
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