Maths

Mathematics at The Leigh UTC consists of an ambitious curriculum, underpinned by the motivation to provide the basis for outstanding STEM learning. We aim to:

• Develop fluency and functionality of students’ mathematical understanding such that students are confident in approaching real-world problems. 
• Develop students to be inquisitive about Mathematics and facilitate them in applying Mathematics in their day to day lives. 
• Build skills of inquiry amongst students whereby they will need to be confident in asking questions and making mistakes.

At KS3, the curriculum is mapped through Maths Mastery (MM). This supports our overarching principle to provide students with a deep conceptual understanding. MM encourages three key principles: Conceptual understanding, Language and communication, and Mathematical thinking. 

MM provides a single curriculum map for all students equally, therefore there is no ceiling imposed on what students can achieve. Multiple representations of one concept are thoroughly explored to ensure a long-lasting impact is made on the student. Students are encouraged to communicate using precise mathematical language, with the use of “talk tasks” present in every topic. This is central to the fluency and functionality of Mathematics the UTC prioritises.

Alongside MM, KS3 students follow the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). This builds on the numerous views and philosophies of MM, enhancing our curriculum further. There are three distinct ways in which the MYP adds to the learning experience: Real life contexts, Interdisciplinary Learning and Global Context. 

Links to relevant real-life contexts are emphasised where possible, asking students to consider how Mathematics helps us understand our world better. Teaching and learning builds a connected curriculum, preparing students for life in an increasingly interconnected world. Learning sets out global contexts across the curriculum, asking students to appreciate the international dimension of Mathematics through enhanced historical and multicultural understanding. In the local context of The Leigh UTC, this exposure is vital, as students are sometimes confined to limited perspectives. 

The curriculum at KS4 spirals on and enhances learning from KS3, building on the content and skills established in students’ first three years of secondary Mathematics. We maintain focus on deep conceptual understanding as we see this as the best tool to prepare students. Students are asked to engage in problem solving with increasing levels of sophistication. Learning involves routine and non-routine problems, encouraging students to build their own line of enquiry. 

The curriculum at post-16 level is broad, giving all students the opportunity to continue their study of mathematics regardless of what level they have previously attained. We offer Level 3 Mathematical Studies (Core Maths), IB Mathematical Applications and Interpretations, and A-Level Maths. Core Maths demonstrates how Maths can be applied in the real-world and can help students gain Apprenticeships. IB A&I Maths provides a more theoretical approach and gives students more options with Higher Education institutes. The most academic route, A-Level Maths, complements the specialisms of Engineering and Computer Science, opening routes for students to continue their studies to university. As a department we also support students to retake their GCSE Maths if they need to improve their grade and deliver the mathematical content for the Engineering T-Level course, ensuring all students know they will be supported from 11 years old until they leave our school.