Maths
Enrichment is key within the mathematics department and we strive to ensure that all pupils, whatever their ability, enjoy their mathematical experiences here at West Hill Park. Our most talented mathematicians regularly take part in national and local mathematics competitions and within the classroom we actively seek out fun and exciting ways to present mathematics to all our pupils thus promoting life long learning.
In Year 3 and 4, pupils are taught by their class teacher. Pupils cover the extent of the numeracy curriculum with particular emphasis on number work and mental arithmetic. The main resource used at this stage is the New Heinemann (NHM) Books 3 and 4 although rich bank resources, available through interactive whiteboards, supplement these.
Upon reaching Year 5 pupils are taught mathematics by a team of experienced subject specialists in well-resourced rooms that include interactive whiteboards. At this stage setting takes place. Pupils are arranged into a top stream with the remainder of the year group being split into two sets based on mathematical ability. The children work on skills across all four-attainment target areas namely using and applying mathematics, number and algebra, shape, space and measure and data handling. Pupils build on the skills gained from the earlier years using NHM 5 and 6 books as core text aiding progression and continuity. Again these texts are supplemented by a host of other resources to ensure a variety of learning styles are experienced within the classroom.
In Year 7 and 8 pupils prepare for Common Entrance 13+ using Galore Parks Maths Prep 2 and 3 as the core text. All children sit Mathematics for Common Entrance at the end of year 8 with some being selected to sit scholarship papers to their next schools if appropriate.