Key Stage 4


Maths

Mathematics is the language of the universe, essential for science, engineering, technology, and everyday problem-solving, shaping the world around us. ~ Steph Rivera

Qualifications

Edexcel – Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Mathematics 601/4700/3

AQA – Entry Level 1&2 Functional skills maths:

  • Level 1 – 603/4257/2
  • Level 2 – 603/4258/4

About Maths at New Heights - Key Stage 4

The aim of the curriculum is to ensure that every student, whatever age or ability, is given the opportunity to fulfil their mathematical potential. Our team will strive to achieve this aim by enforcing high standards and by delivering enthusiastic, high-quality teaching which provides our students with the skills and understanding they will need for their journey through life. We expect the curriculum to be delivered in a positive and encouraging way to engage all learners in maths.

The scheme of learning is differentiated for students understanding and to ensure it is accessible to all. Where necessary, intervention is put into place and there is always challenge to stretch students.

Subject Content

Year 10
Number topics
Introduction to algebra
Shape and measure
Problem solving skills
Multiples, Factors and Primes
Powers and roots
Year 11
Data handling
Shape and measure extended
Algebra (advanced)
Angles and symmetry
Statistics

Math is calculated

Link to Work-based Learning

  • Students will be taught how to apply their maths skills to the world of work.
  • Students will be offered a range of extra activities and provisions in which the students will gain further development of mathematics.
  • Students will be given the chance to complete projects on Work Based Learning (WBL) which will consolidate any extra mathematical knowledge they obtain.
  • Students will be presented with real-life situations in mathematical terms allowing them to use their own mathematics skills to answer related questions and issues.

Curriculum Principles

The aims and objectives for the Pearson Edexcel Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9–1) in Mathematics are to enable students to:

  • Develop fluent knowledge, skills and understanding of mathematical methods and concepts.
  • Acquire, select and apply mathematical techniques to solve problems.
  • Reason mathematically, make deductions and inferences, and draw conclusions.
  • Comprehend, interpret and communicate mathematical information in a variety of forms appropriate to the information and context.

The aim of AQA Entry Level 1 and 2 Functional Skills Maths is to:

Equip learners with fundamental mathematical skills, allowing them to confidently

  • Apply basic calculations and problem-solving techniques in everyday situations, particularly within the workplace,
  • by focusing on core concepts like number recognition,
  • basic operations,
  • measurement,
  • and handling data,

ultimately enabling them to progress in further education or employment.

Assessment and Feedback

Edexcel GCSE:

All students will be entered to one of two levels of assessment; Foundation or Higher. 3 Exams will be completed at the end of year 11 for the GCSE. Two exams will be with use of calculator and a single exam without.

The GCSE (9 to 1) qualification will be graded and certificated on a nine-grade scale from 9 to 1 using the total subject mark where 9 is the highest grade. Individual components are not graded. For Foundation tier grades 1 – 5 are available, and for Higher tier grades 4 – 9 are available (grade 3 allowed).

AQA Entry Level:

AQA Level 1 and 2 Functional Skills in Mathematics are linear. Learners must sit both papers in the same series. For both levels, 25% of the total marks are allocated to the assessment of underpinning skills and 75% of the total marks are allocated to the assessment of problem solving.

Links to Everyday Life

Mathematics plays a crucial role in everyday decision-making and problem-solving. Whether it’s budgeting, cooking, shopping, telling the time, or understanding bills and contracts, students use maths constantly in their daily lives – often without even realising it.

The curriculum helps students develop confidence in handling numbers, thinking logically, and approaching tasks methodically. These skills are not only practical but also help students build resilience and independence in both personal and professional contexts.

Math is everywhere!

Future Careers

Mathematics is a highly transferable subject that is a foundation for a wide variety of careers across sectors. The skills developed through the maths curriculum – problem solving, analytical thinking, accuracy, and logical reasoning – are in high demand. Possible future career paths include:

  • Accountant or Bookkeeper
  • Engineer (eg Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
  • Architect
  • Data Analyst or Statistician
  • Teacher or Academic
  • Financial Advisor or Banker
  • Software Developer or Programmer
  • Technician (eg Lab, IT, Automotive)
  • Construction industry (eg Quantity surveyor)
  • Project Manager or Planner
  • Retail Manager or Buyer
  • Roles in the Armed Forces or Emergency Services
  • Construction or Quantity Surveyor

Mathematics also supports progression to apprenticeships, further education, and university courses in a wide range of fields.

Science