INFO for PARENTS & PUPILS

Setting for 2010/11

YEAR 7 - Due to specialist status funding we are able to set year 7 into 5 groups using SATs data from year 6. This means much smaller class size. Tutor groups ABMP form 5 sets, RSTW form another 5 sets.
YEAR 8 - set into groups using assessment data from year 7. Tutor groups ABMP form 5 sets, RSTW form another 5 sets.
YEAR 9 - set into 2 bands X and Y, X: 1 - 7 and Y: 1 - 3.
YEAR 10 - set into 2 bands: X: 1 - 4 and Y: 1 - 6.
YEAR 11 - set into 2 bands: X: 1 - 4 and Y: 1 - 6.

These sets are reviewed regularly and because our schemes of work are common and differentiated, pupils can move between sets at any time.

We conduct our own internal key assessments to measure pupils progress and these (together with classwork, homework and attitude) determine a pupil's set.

The GCSE exam board that we follow is Edexcel.
There are 2 tiers of entry - Higher and Foundation.
There is NO coursework in maths.

"Can I get a grade C on the Foundation tier?"
- We now have a new GCSE system which allows those on the Foundation tier to achieve a grade C.

"Does my child have to do maths coursework?"
- Coursework is no longer a requirement in maths.

"How do I help my child revise for the GCSE exams in year 11?"
- All pupils in year 11 receive a CD free of charge containing interactive tutorials and questions on all topics in the GCSE syllabus. This is produced by an organisiation called Mathswatch. If your child has not received one please contact your child's maths teacher. These cost us £2 each but are free to the pupils - all we ask is that they are returned in June when they have finished using them.
- Other places to visit is the MyMaths website (they should know the login and password - contact your maths teacher if not) which again deals with every topic in the GCSE syllabus.
- A more game orientated way of revising can be found at mangahigh.com which is a brilliant site.

"How do I help my child revise for the KS3 exams in year 9?"
- There are lots of things that can help. Start by visiting this page. Details are here of where to download past papers from, how to try online papers that get marked for you, what to do during the holidays in the run up to the exams, general information about the tests and other revision sites that would be useful. The exams are usually in the 3rd week of June.

"How and what will my child be taught at KS3?"
- Our lessons incorporate the Key Stage 3 National Framework for Mathematics and pupils are expected to use oral and visual reasoning, along with ICT, as well as more traditional methods.

"The new KS3 Homeworks are confusing - how can I help my child complete them?"
- All KS3 homeworks are started off in class so that everyone is aware of the task. Progress is checked regularly so that no one is left behind. If your child has missed any lessons it is very important that they speak with their maths teacher so that they fully understand what to do.
- So that parents can help at home page 2 of the task notes include level descriptors that give hints on how to complete the task.
- All homework notes can be downloaded from the main school homework webpages.

Any other queries please email Mr Marks, Head of Faculty or your child's actual maths teacher.