Maths
Mathematics is taught in ability sets in all years. Pupils in Year 7 are in mixed ability classes until October half term. The subject is popular with students at all levels of ability. The faculty strives to maximise potential in all pupils across the age and ability range.
Every year pupils in years 7 and 8 are given the opportunity to take part in a ‘Mathemagic Show’ run by Techniquest in Cardiff Bay. Year 7 and 8 pupils are also given the opportunity to attend a weekly maths club where they can develop their numeracy skills by taking part in games and challenges.
More able pupils in year 9 are given the opportunity to reach level 8 by attending our weekly Level 8 Club after school.
Staff
| Rhys Ivins | Deputy Head of School and Head of Faculty |
| Zoe Toomey | Leader of Learning & Numeracy |
| Claire Finney | ALNco |
| Laura Serpell | Teacher |
| Paul Williams Burnett | Teacher |
| Joel Porter | Teacher |
| Ryan Fisher | Teacher |
Years 7 and 8
Pupils follow all aspects of the National Curriculum covering number, algebra, shape and space as well as data. Our programmes of study have been specially tailored to accommodate the requirements of the National Literacy and Numeracy Framework.
A variety of resources and strategies are used and lessons include a healthy balance of whole class teaching, group work and independent learning. There is always a busy working atmosphere with lots of interaction and support. Pupils are encouraged to participate actively in lessons by explaining their methods or justifying their answers. Problem-solving and thinking skills are an increasing feature of our work as well as challenging mental arithmetic skills using puzzles, challenges and oral games.
Years 9, 10 and 11
Students study the WJEC Mathematics course and the WJEC Mathematics Numeracy course. Both qualifications are entirely exam based. There are 3 tiers of entry for both qualifications.
- Higher Tier: Grades A* – C
- Intermediate Tier: Grades B – E
- Foundation Tier: Grades D – G
GCSE Mathematics Numeracy will build on and progress from the levels of numeracy expected at the end of Key Stage 3 through the Literacy and Numeracy Framework and will assess the mathematics that learners will need in their everyday lives, in the world of work, and in other general curriculum areas.
GCSE Mathematics will build on and progress from the levels of mathematics expected at the end of Key Stage 3 through the National Curriculum Programme of Study for Mathematics. Whilst GCSE in Mathematics Numeracy will assess the Mathematics that learners will need in their everyday lives, in the world of work, and in other general curriculum areas, GCSE Mathematics will extend to aspects of mathematics needed for progression to scientific, technical or further mathematical study.
Selected students will have the opportunity to sit the examination in November of year 11. More able pupils who fulfil their potential in the November examinations will be further extended with an introduction to the A level mathematics course. All pupils will have the opportunity to sit the examination in the summer of year 11. Early entry is available for selected students. Pupils on the C/D borderline are offered extra support at lunchtimes and after school.
MathsWatch and MyMaths
The Mathematics Faculty at Pontypridd High School recognises the value of home school relationships and the positive impact on pupil progress when parents and teachers communicate regularly and work together.
The school subscribes to both the mymaths and mathswatch websites. These websites provide every pupil with access to a wealth of online resources to support and consolidate our programmes of study. These resources should be used regularly for revision purposes when preparing for tests and completing homework tasks.
Login details can be obtained from the Mathematics Faculty.