Bishop Stopford School

Maths Curriculum -Bishop Stopford School

Purpose of Study

At Bishop Stopford School, we believe mathematics is a vital part of every student’s education. As stated in the National Curriculum:

“Mathematics is essential to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment.”

We want our students to be genuinely excited about Mathematics—embracing the challenges they encounter in the classroom and confidently applying what they’ve learned to real-life situations. Our curriculum is designed to nurture confident, fluent mathematicians who can reason, solve problems, and see how a deeper understanding of Maths can enrich their lives beyond school.

Curriculum Intent

Our intent is to:

Become fluent in the fundamentals of Mathematics.
Solve problems by breaking down a question and applying their mathematical knowledge.
Build deep understanding of mathematical concepts across number, algebra, geometry, ratio, probability, and statistics.
Develop students’ ability to reason mathematically and communicate using precise language.
Visualise mathematical ideas with the use of bar models, number lines, algebra tiles, and diagrams.
Equip students with the skills needed for further study, employment, and everyday decision-making.
Foster resilience, curiosity, and enjoyment in mathematics.

Curriculum Structure

Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9):

Students’ learning is securely built upon Key Stage 2 foundations, laying the groundwork for future success.
Lessons are designed to be challenging and engaging, with appropriate support.
By Year 9, our ambition is for all students to be highly numerate, confident in their grasp of mathematical fundamentals, and adept at applying problem-solving skills across a range of contexts.
[KS3 Curriculum Overview PDF]

Key Stage 4 (Years 10–11):

Students follow the Edexcel GCSE Mathematics specification.
Students are entered for either the Foundation or Higher tier, based on progress and teacher recommendation.
They will sit one non-calculator paper and two calculator examination papers at the end of Year 11.
[KS4 Curriculum Overview PDF]

Class Grouping

Students are grouped according to ability to ensure that each learner receives the appropriate level of challenge and support.
Groupings are reviewed regularly through ongoing assessment, allowing for flexibility and responsiveness to individual progress.
This approach promotes targeted teaching and maximizes learning outcomes across all subjects.

Further information and details of the class structure can be found [here].

Assessment & Progress

· Students are assessed through regular homework, formally marked works and assessments.

· Data is used to inform teaching, identify gaps, and support targeted intervention.

· Groupings are reviewed after each key assessment to ensure students are in the most suitable learning environment.

Resources & Support

Students benefit from access to:

DrFrostMaths and Mathswatch for independent practice and revision.
Maths Help sessions run during the second half of lunchtime in Room M7 where there is a maths teacher to help answer any questions or support additional learning: Key Stage 3 students can attend on Mondays, and Key Stage 4 students on Wednesdays.

Enrichment Opportunities

At Bishop Stopford School, students in Years 7 to 11 may be invited to take part in national Junior, Intermediate or Senior Maths Challenges, which offer an exciting opportunity to stretch their problem-solving skills and explore mathematical thinking beyond the classroom.

High-achieving participants may be invited to follow-on rounds like the Kangaroo or Olympiad, offering further challenge and recognition.

Contact

For more information about the maths curriculum or any questions, please contact:

Mathematics