Curriculum Intent

We believe that there should be something unique about teaching Maths in a Catholic School. As such our curriculum will be formational; it strives not only to teach useful knowledge and skills, but to prepare the whole person. It is empowering; it teaches students the knowledge and ability to think critically about the world and about human culture, so that our students can go forth and make a positive contribution. Our curriculum is there as a conduit to bring youngsters closer to the values of the Gospels.

We expect students to come away from teaching and learning in Maths with something more than an accumulation of knowledge, important though this is. We hope that students will develop an appreciation for Mathematics that will support then well into the future, a future not yet known.

We hope that students will develop leadership skills through our curriculum and its operation. For example, our Sixth Form mathematicians have also taken an active role in the mentoring of younger students, particularly in KS3. This has taken a varied approach, from one-to-one support and also helping out during lessons. Having work explained by someone only a few years older than them, has had a positive impact on the outcomes of our KS3 learners.

Our Maths curriculum is ambitious because:

• We ensure that all students, no matter their previous mathematical experiences, abilities or specific learning needs are all given chances to succeed and leave Oaklands with a wide range of happy and rewarding experiences of mathematics.
• It encourages the development of mental habits. Most importantly precision, determination, careful and accurate questioning, inquiry and reasoning.
• We provide an opportunity for students to respond to the beauty, harmony, proportion, radiance and wholeness present in mathematics.
• Encourage students to think about how mathematical concepts can be extrapolated to other areas of the curriculum.
• Where relevant within our curriculum we discuss how mathematical objects or proofs (such as the golden ratio, Fibonacci numbers, the musical scale and geometric proofs) suggest divine origin.
• We use mathematics as an opportunity to explore the values and virtues that run through our school ethos.
• We do not narrow what we teach to fit within the national curriculum, but also include skills and knowledge that allow students to succeed in other disciplines and have a broad understanding of how mathematical principles can be used in the wider world.
• We provide students with opportunities above what is examinable.
• Our lessons are delivered by highly enthusiastic and motivated subject specialists who will support their students to develop a proficiency in key skills and ensure students develop an enthusiasm and interest in mathematics.
• Financial literacy skills are included within our curriculum to ensure our students can operate fiscal responsibility and not be exploited.

We have a detailed understanding of the skills students have developed and the knowledge mastered in Key Stage 2. We aim to build on these so they are fluent in using these in reasoning and problem-solving contexts. Students will become motivated to identify where they need to improve within the subject. With support they will become more adept at working on these areas, becoming better mathematicians. We do not fear mistakes being made. Mistakes are expected, inspected and respected.

We aim to provide opportunities to enjoy mathematical learning outside the normal classroom environment, this increases motivation and enjoyment. For example, in understanding how geometry was used to construct our school buildings, conducting school trips to nearby places of mathematical interest, and giving parents the opportunity to take an interest in and show pride for their child’s work through the regular setting of homework tasks. We recognize that students need to demonstrate mathematics within other lessons; from using graphs in Geography, measurements in Technology, calculations in Science, we aim to support youngsters across the curriculum.

Finally, it is our hope that as a result of the experience of Maths at Oaklands, students will continue to see the importance of Maths as a subject in many parts of life, and the importance it holds in creating a well-rounded and future proof individual.

Updated July 22