Mathematics and Computer Science

Maths GCSE

Course Summary

All students follow a course of study that covers the six core areas of Mathematics outlined in the National Curriculum: 1-

Number
Algebra
Ratio and proportion of change
Probability
Statistics
Geometry and measures

Courses are designed to refine and develop students’ skills from the level they have achieved at the end of Year 9 and to prepare them fully for entry in the GCSE examination at the end of Year 11. For all courses progress, achievement and attainment are monitored closely throughout the course and feedback given to students on a regular basis.

GCSE Maths is assessed by examination. The examination consists of three papers, two calculator based and one that must be done without a calculator. All papers carry equal weighting.

Students follow a course that allows them to be entered for the GCSE examination at one of two levels:

Higher: (grades 4 – 9)
Foundation: (grades 1 – 5)

Some students will also follow a course leading to a level 1 certificate in Number and Measure and Statistical Methods.

Further Maths GCSE

Course Summary

This course offers the opportunity for stretch and challenge that builds upon the KS4 curriculum. It places an emphasis on higher order technical proficiency, rigorous argument and problem solving skills.

The course will require a high level of mathematical ability and clear communication skills. It is a good introduction to statistics at A-level.

In Year 10 the course follows the Edexcel GCSE Statistics syllabus, including:

Data
Displaying Data
Averages and measures if spread
Analysis of summary data

Probability In Year 11 students will study AQA level 2 Certification in Further Mathematics, this includes:

Matrix transformations
Sequences
Trigonometry Curve sketching
Assessment

Year 10

At the end of Year 10 students will be entered for Edexcel Award in Statistical Methods level 2 or 3 as appropriate.

Year 11

At the end of Year 11 students will be entered for AQA level 2 in Further Mathematics.

Computer Science GCSE

Course Summary

The advancements in technology are incredible, and whilst IT skills will make students competent users of technology – computer science can unlock students’ potential and position them as the creators of the next technological innovation, ground breaking app or global reaching website.

Computer Science isn’t just about computers!

Bioinformatics is a branch of Biology that involves writing computer programs to analyse medical research and develop medications; Computational Geographers use write computer programs to calculate continental drift and weather patterns; Sports Statisticians write computer programs to analyse athletes’ performance and stamina. Computer Science is an incredibly exciting course that will give all students a solid set of skills to set them up for further studies into Computer Science or any other discipline they choose.

Assessment

Component 1 (Exam 40%)
Students explore the ideas of computational thinking and problem solving and look at how computer programs are developed.

Component 2 (Exam 40%)
Students look at a wide range of computer science topic areas such as networking, security & computer hardware.

Component 3 (Controlled Assessment 20%)
Students apply their knowledge of Python to solve a practical programming problem following a systematic approach.