Mathematics

The aim of the Mathematics Department is to help each pupil develop an appreciation of Mathematics whilst acquiring the greatest possible range of competence and skills required for their studies.

The popularity of Mathematics at St. Helen’s is displayed by the fact that over half of the Sixth Form continues to study the subject beyond GCSE level. In 2007, at A level, over 65% of candidates achieved an A grade and 92% at least a B grade; all those who took Further Mathematics achieved an A grade. At GCSE level, 39% achieved a grade A* (with 84% at grades A*-A and 97% at grades A* - B). These results reflect the quality of both teaching and learning at St. Helen’s.

Currently, Mathematics is taught in up to seven sets, by ability, in Years 7 to 11. As examination results show, all students achieve a high level of understanding.  All sets are prepared for the EDEXCEL International GCSE curriculum (IGCSE) in Year 11.

In the Sixth Form, for those students studying AS and A Level courses, we follow the EDEXCEL modular Mathematics A2 and AS level, the usual combinations being pure and statistics or pure and mechanics. We also have a group studying for further mathematics who study pure, further pure, mechanics and statistics.

Our first cohort of International Baccalaureate (IB) students took examinations in June 2006. The Mathematics component of the IB course can be studied at three levels, although some form of mathematical study is compulsory.

At all stages of Senior School, girls take part in both national and local competitions. Each year our students do well in the national Mathematical Challenges, with our best pupils being invited to participate in further competitions such as the Olympiad trials at Intermediate and Senior level.

For those pupils who find they need a helping hand with their Mathematics, every member of the Department is willing to offer extra help informally, outside of lessons, whenever free to do so.

We firmly believe that a confident pupil is a successful pupil and we are delighted by the enthusiasm shown for the subject at St. Helen’s.