Mathematics

Mathematics Department

Developing numeracy and problem-solving skills for life

Vision and Aims

At Notton House Academy, our Mathematics Department is committed to ensuring all pupils develop a good level of numeracy and the ability to solve real-life problems. We believe that mathematics should be accessible, meaningful, and empowering for all our learners, building their confidence and opening doors to future opportunities.

Our approach embodies the school's core values of Safety, Kindness, and Respect by creating a supportive learning environment where pupils feel secure making mistakes, ask questions, and grow at their own pace. We understand that many of our pupils may have experienced mathematical anxiety or educational trauma, so we focus on building confidence through practical applications that demonstrate the relevance of mathematics in everyday life.

How We Teach Mathematics: Mathematics content is taught through carefully sequenced topics that build upon each other. Knowledge is introduced systematically, ensuring pupils have the foundation they need to understand new concepts. Key mathematical ideas are revisited regularly to improve learning and long-term retention.

Lesson Structure: Our lessons follow the EPIBA model to maximise learning:

Engage - Hook pupils into the lesson with real-world contexts
Prior learning/Retrieval - Check understanding from previous lessons
Introduce new knowledge - Present new mathematical concepts clearly
Build knowledge - Develop understanding through guided practice
Apply knowledge - Use learning in different mathematical contexts

Each lesson also includes language development and a plenary to showcase learning.

Challenge and Differentiation: To ensure all pupils are appropriately challenged, we develop both procedural fluency and mathematical reasoning. Tasks are clearly labelled as "prior learning", "core learning" and "extend and challenge" to help pupils extend their knowledge beyond the standard curriculum expectations.

Our commitment is to ensure that all pupils:

Develop a good level of numeracy and confidence with numbers
Learn to solve real-life problems using mathematical thinking
Build resilience and logical reasoning skills that will serve them throughout life
Gain appropriate mathematics qualifications that reflect their true potential
Experience success in mathematics within a trauma-informed, nurturing environment

What qualifications are on offer?

We provide a range of qualifications to meet every pupil's needs and aspirations, ensuring multiple pathways to success:

Entry Level Certificate in Mathematics

Foundation mathematical skills and problem-solving
Perfect for building confidence and establishing core numeracy concepts
Available in Years 9/10

Functional Skills Mathematics (Level 1 or 2)

Practical mathematics skills for real-life situations
Develops employability skills highly valued by employers
Alternative pathway for some pupils

GCSE Mathematics

Comprehensive mathematics qualification
Available in Years 10/11 following Entry Level success
Gateway to further education and career opportunities

All qualifications are carefully matched to individual pupil needs, prior attainment, and future aspirations.

How are Pupils Assessed?

Our assessment approach is designed to support learning rather than simply measure it, reflecting our trauma-informed practice and commitment to individual growth.

Ongoing Assessment for Learning:

Weekly assessment to identify the level at which pupils are working
Assessment matches the learning outcomes for each week rather than formal testing
Regular feedback celebrates achievements and identifies next steps

Progress Tracking:

All outcomes are tracked and graded systematically
A pupil is making progress if they are improving the grade at which they are working
Individual learning journeys are celebrated, recognising that progress looks different for every pupil

Formal Assessment:

Periodic tests of 10-15 minutes may be used every week or two to check recall
Longer examinations are used to prepare pupils for examined qualifications
Stress management and exam technique support provided through regular THRIVE sessions, key working and therapeutic support

Pathways and Life Opportunities

Mathematics education at Notton House Academy opens doors to a wide range of exciting and rewarding opportunities, directly supporting our mission to improve life opportunities for all pupils.

Recent Year 11 Destinations: Our pupils have successfully progressed to:

Further education colleges studying A-Level Mathematics
Apprenticeships requiring strong numeracy skills
Employment in local businesses and services
Specialist SEMH provisions for continued development

Entry Level and Functional Skills graduates often progress to:

GCSE Mathematics pathways
Apprenticeships in various sectors
Further education opportunities

GCSE Mathematics qualifications provide pathways to:

A-Level Mathematics and further study
Wide range of further education courses
Employment and apprenticeship routes across all sectors
Accessing post-16 college opportunities

Mathematics is seen as an essential qualification for a wide range of further education and employment/apprenticeship routes. Mathematical skills develop logical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities that benefit every aspect of adult life.

How Can You Support Your Child?

We use Times Table Rock Stars: https://ttrockstars.com/; and Tassomai: https://www.tassomai.com/ - all pupils have a login to TT Rockstars and also KS3/4 pupils to Tassomai. Encouraging use of these outside of school will be beneficial.

Notton House Academy is part of Midsomer Norton Schools' Partnership