Mathematics enables all students to be numerate in their world and to think in a way that encourages critical awareness through problem-solving, reasoning and communicating understanding.

Students need to be able to apply, combine and adapt skills to be able to use Mathematics independently throughout their lives. Students follow programmes of study that are designed by the Mathematics Faculty. Numeracy – the application of mathematics to solve problems in real-world contexts – plays a critical part in our everyday lives and we develop lessons to be engaging, exciting and as accessible as possible for learners, ensuring that learners develop mathematical resilience.

At the end of this Key Stage, students should be able to perform mental calculations, discuss and use problem-solving strategies and appreciate the breadth of applications of Mathematics, as a source of enjoyment, as well as a vital set of skills. Through this Key Stage, they can become ambitious, capable learners, ready to learn throughout their lives.

In Key Stage 4, students prepare for two GCSEs with WJEC.

1. GCSE Mathematics - Numeracy where students learn and practise the mathematics that learners will need in their everyday lives, in the world of work and other general curriculum areas.
2. GCSE Mathematics - extends students skills to aspects of mathematics needed for progression to scientific, technical or further mathematical study.

For both qualifications, students can be entered at three levels:

Foundation Tier (Grades D-G) involves basic mathematical content and avoids abstract algebraic work.

Intermediate Tier (Grades B-E) develops mathematical understanding and students will be introduced to the concepts of Trigonometry and Algebra.

Higher Tier (Grades A*-C) is considerably more demanding, covering concepts and skills needed for Advanced Level work.

At Monmouth we offer A/AS Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics using the WJEC course.

• A/AS Level Mathematics - builds on Higher Tier GCSE Mathematics and allows you to study topics such as geometry, calculus and trigonometry and use these ideas the ‘applied’ topics such as mechanics and statistics
• A/AS Level Further Mathematics - must be studied alongside A/AS Level Mathematics and supports students in developing a deeper and broader understanding of mathematical concepts.

The course covers both Pure and Applied Mathematics. Both A Levels are assessed through external examinations. We also give some students the opportunity to improve on their previous GCSE grade by attending a ‘one-year’ GCSE class. This is useful to students studying AS levels in other subjects where there is a university entrance requirement to have a grade C or B in Mathematics