The department is staffed by a team of eleven specialist mathematics teachers. All of the maths classrooms are equipped with interactive whiteboards with appropriate teaching software for all pupils. In addition to this the department has regular access to the schools ICT suites. The mathematics department is a progressive and dynamic team with a blend of experience and youth. All staff are fully committed to ensuring all pupils achieve their full potential. Academic standards are extremely high in Mathematics. In 2010, the department saw the best ever GCSE Maths results at the school, with 79% passing at Grade A*to C. At A level, in 2010, 72% of students gained grade A* to B. Mathematics continues to be the most popular subject in the school at A level. Further Mathematics is taken by students who want to pursue careers in Mathematics, Engineering, Statistics, Architecture or Mathematics related courses. 100% of students in 2011 gained grade A* to C in Further Maths at A level.

The Mathematics Department at Audenshaw School seeks to develop in each student the following:

1. A positive attitude towards mathematics by:

  • seeing it as an interesting and attractive subject
  • helping them to appreciate the creative and aesthetic aspects of the subject
  • ensuring that persistence through sustained work is rewarded
  • giving credit and praise to improve confidence
  • encouraging students to themselves challenging targets
  • use of the Department web site with especial reference to puzzles and challenges

2. Sound numerical skills by:

  • ensuring that calculators are used sensibly and efficiently
  • the use of starters and plenaries to promote the use of mental skills or to recap homework
  • insisting that they learn relevant concepts and facts

3. A willingness to use algebraic skills by:

  • exploring mathematical patterns and sequences within context
  • identifying functional relationships
  • using correct and appropriate mathematical notation and language
  • using mathematics to model real-life situations

4. Raising spatial awareness by:

  • fostering an appreciation of the nature of space in a geometrical context
  • encouraging them to use different representations (e.g. plans and elevations)
  • exploring properties of shape and space through the drawing and practical work
  • using appropriate Software packages to investigate transformations

5. An understanding of statistical enquiry by:

  • encouraging them to formulate their own hypotheses
  • collecting data from a range of sources by an appropriate sampling technique
  • communicating their findings through an appropriate and relevant charts and diagrams
  • using IT to facilitate the efficient data analysis and simulations
  • engaging in practical and experimental work
  • looking critically at the presentation of information
  • evaluating their work and recognising the limitations or bias within their work

6. An ability to use and apply Mathematics by:

  • raising an awareness of Mathematics across the school curriculum
  • relating appropriate mathematical problems to life itself
  • developing an understanding through enquiry and experience
  • expressing problems in mathematical terms as an aid to their solution

encouraging an ability to think clearly and logically with independence of thought and flexibility of mind.