One of the primary aims of the Mathematics Department is to stimulate interest and enthusiasm for the subject. At all key stages, standards of attainment are consistently well in excess of national averages. We endeavour to develop, in all students, confidence and accuracy in handling and applying everyday mathematical ideas and techniques. A variety of teaching and learning methods, incorporating both individual and group activities, develop each student’s written, oral and practical skills.
Key Stage 3 Mathematics is delivered in line with the National Curriculum and builds on work covered in Years 5 and 6. Our Key Stage 3 Scheme of Learning allows pupils to achieve deep understanding of skills and knowledge and to apply these to problem solving.

All Key Stage 3 pupils have one lesson per fortnight devoted to our “Be a Mathematician” (BEAM) programme which helps them develop key skills of Mathematicians such as logical thinking, reasoning, generalising and problem solving. In some cases BEAM lessons expose pupils to problems that support their curriculum learning and in others they will expand knowledge beyond the scope of the National Curriculum, looking at skills such as cryptography or the basics of decision Mathematics.
At Key Stage 4 as well as studying GCSE Mathematics, we also offer the Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics and Entry Level Certificates in Mathematics where appropriate. Interest in studying mathematics at post-16 is very strong. The A Level Mathematics course provides a stimulating and interesting base for further study. In addition we also offer A Level Further Mathematics and Mathematical Studies, a Level 3 Core Maths qualification, to ensure post-16 mathematics is available to as many students as possible.
Careful monitoring of all students’ performance throughout their time at King James’s School enables us to set high and clear targets for each student and give them effective feedback to maximise their potential in the subject.