Maths at Park View

Our aim is for every student to become a confident, capable and resilient in maths. We want students to understand the importance of maths in everyday life, to develop strong problem‑solving skills, and to leave school equipped for further study, employment and independent living.

🔵 Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9)

All students follow a curriculum based on the National Curriculum and the White Rose Maths scheme of work, which mirrors the approach used by many of our partner primary schools. This ensures a smooth transition and builds on prior learning.

We use a blend of concrete, pictorial and abstract methods so that students can access mathematical ideas in a way that makes sense to them.

What students learn

  • Number: The four operations, place value, fractions, decimals and percentages, using practical methods wherever possible.
  • Measurement: Using rulers accurately, measuring length, mass and volume, and converting between units.
  • Geometry: Understanding shapes, angles, symmetry and, later, more advanced ideas such as vectors.
  • Statistics: Reading and creating tables, charts and graphs to represent data.

How learning progresses

Maths is a cyclical subject — topics are revisited regularly, each time in greater depth. Students follow learning plans suited to their ability, ensuring appropriate challenge and support.

Assessment and support

Students are assessed termly through:

  • classwork
  • verbal responses
  • low‑stakes quizzes
  • formal assessments

These help us identify gaps in understanding so we can address them quickly and prepare students for the most suitable Key Stage 4 pathway.

Our KS3 goal

To develop strong mathematical literacy — using correct vocabulary, applying recognised strategies and building confidence — so students are ready for the next stage of their learning.

🟢 Key Stage 4 Pathways

We offer three pathways to ensure every student can succeed:

Entry Level Maths

Designed for students who need more time to consolidate Key Stage 3 skills, including those with specific learning needs such as dyscalculia.

Key features

  • No final exam — assessment is through small, manageable in‑class tests.
  • Students work at their own pace and can continue using concrete resources where needed.
  • Provides a foundation for Level 1 Maths at school or college.

Components

  1. Properties of number
  2. The four operations
  3. Ratio
  4. Money
  5. Calendar and time
  6. Measures
  7. Geometry
  8. Statistics

🟡 Functional Skills Maths (Level 1 & Level 2)

A practical, life‑skills‑focused qualification that helps students apply maths to real‑world situations.

What makes it different from GCSE?

  • Narrower content (less algebra and abstract maths)
  • Strong focus on applying knowledge to everyday problems
  • On‑demand online assessments
  • Up to 8 attempts, reducing pressure and supporting anxious learners

Possible routes

Students may:

  • Complete Level 1, then progress to Level 2 at college
  • Complete Level 1 and continue Level 2 in school
  • Complete Level 1 early in Year 10 and move onto GCSE if required for future plans

🟣 GCSE Mathematics

Students study six main areas:

  1. Number
  2. Algebra
  3. Ratio, proportion and rates of change
  4. Geometry and measures
  5. Probability
  6. Statistics

Expectations

Because GCSE maths covers a large amount of content, students need to reach a high Level 5 by the end of Key Stage 3 to ensure they can master the GCSE curriculum.

Assessment

  • Three exams at the end of Year 11
    • Paper 1: Non‑calculator
    • Papers 2 & 3: Calculator
  • The final paper places particular emphasis on problem solving and interpreting unfamiliar situations.

There is also an optional November resit for students aiming for early entry to A‑Level Maths or Science.

Our Commitment

Across all pathways, we aim to:

  • build confidence and resilience
  • develop strong problem‑solving skills
  • ensure students understand how maths applies to real life
  • prepare learners for further education, apprenticeships or employment