At Tewkesbury Academy our aim is for all students to aspire to and achieve success in their mathematical studies. This includes developing well rounded numerical literacy, enabling students to effectively engage within the wider world, while also achieving their full potential in their mathematics GCSE. For some students this will also lead to further studies through A-level mathematics or Level 3 mathematical studies (core maths) at our Sixth Form College.
Their pathway through mathematics at Tewkesbury Academy will be supplemented and supported through the use of technology to explore and embed the concepts students are introduced to. Students will also have the opportunity to experience mathematics through a range of extra-curricular activities such as the UKMT Maths Challenges, as well as through related trips that explore mathematics outside of the classroom.
“An expert is a person who has made all the mistakes that can be made in a very narrow field”
The mathematics classroom will allow students the curiosity to explore. They will gain an understanding that the pathway to learning will include mistakes and some struggle as students experiment with new concepts. Classrooms will promote students to develop a ‘can-do’ attitude – it is not the case that a student ‘can’t do it’, just that they ‘can’t do it yet’. Students will be supported to achieve success through scaffolding and effort. Inclusivity is fundamental to the mathematics classroom, and appropriate adaptions will be made to provide an equal opportunity for all students to participate and thrive in their lessons.
Assessments in mathematics will allow teachers to identify students existing understanding of concepts and will build upon this in order for all students to thrive and progress in their learning.
Whichever path our students follow, they should leave Tewkesbury Academy with the resilience to persevere, the reflectiveness to improve and the problem-solving skills to adapt and overcome challenges.
