Maths & Computing
Welcome to Mathematics and Computing At Burntwood, the Maths and Computing curriculum is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to thrive in an increasingly digital and data-driven world. We aim to develop confident, articulate, and numerate young people who can solve a wide range of abstract and real-world problems through logical thinking, creativity, and technical expertise. By fostering mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking in a dynamic and engaging learning environment, students learn to analyse, interpret, and evaluate complex information. They come to recognise that both mathematics and computing are fundamental to understanding the world around us and are vital for success in further education and active participation in modern society.Skills and Knowledge Acquired
Through studying Maths and Computing, students will:
- Develop logical reasoning, and critical thinking skills.
- Gain fluency and oracy in mathematical techniques, and methods.
- Build confidence in solving problems both independently, and collaboratively.
- Understand how mathematics underpins science, technology, engineering, and other disciplines.
- Enhance their ability to interpret, and analyse data.
- Prepare for further education and careers in fields that require quantitative, and analytical expertise.
- Develop computational thinking skills.
- Understand how technology influences, and shapes society.
- Gain proficiency in coding, software development, and data analysis.
- Build foundational knowledge for future study and careers in technology, and computer science fields.
- Enhance digital literacy, and understand ethical considerations in technology use.
Curriculum Maps
Areas of Study
Key Stage 3 (KS3)Students in KS3 lay the foundations for mathematical success, and build the foundational knowledge and skills required for understanding computer science and digital literacy. Areas of study include:
Maths:
- Number: place value; negative numbers; order of operations; rounding; fractions; decimals, percentages and ratios.
- Algebra: expressions; equations; coordinates and graphs.
- Geometry: shapes; angles; measure; 3D shapes.
- Statistics: data collection; representation and interpretation.
- Problem-solving: application of Maths to both abstract and real-world contexts.
Computing:
- Year 7: E-safety and file management; introduction to spreadsheets; introduction to programming in Scratch.
- Year 8: Computer hardware and software; intermediate spreadsheets; intermediate programming in Scratch.
- Year 9: Python programming language; digital media production.
Key Stage 4 (KS4)
At KS4, students build on their prior knowledge while preparing for GCSE examinations, and dive deeper into theoretical and practical aspects of computing. Areas of study include:
Maths:
- Number: fractions; percentages; ratio; proportional reasoning; standard form.
- Algebra: linear and quadratic sequences and equations; graphs and transformations; simultaneous equations; exponential functions; inequalities.
- Geometry: circle theorems; vectors; Pythagoras; trigonometry.
- Statistics and Probability: data handling and representation; probability.
- Problem-solving: application of Maths to both abstract and real-world contexts.
Computing:
- Year 10: Paper 1 Algorithms, Programming Techniques, Data Representation; Paper 2 Computer Systems, Networks, Cybersecurity, Practical programming projects focused on problem-solving using Python.
- Year 11: Revision of theoretical content (Paper 1 and Paper 2); NEA (Non-Exam Assessment) project and advanced programming; Mock exams and final preparation for GCSE exams.
Key Stage 5 (KS5)
KS5 students have the opportunity to deepen their mathematical and computing understanding through three A-Level courses: Maths, Further Maths and Computer Science
Maths A level:
- Pure: advanced algebra; calculus; logarithms; mathematical modelling; proof; trigonometry; numerical methods.
- Mechanics: forces; motion; kinematics.
- Statistics: probability; statistical distributions; hypothesis testing.
- Further Maths A level
- Further Pure: matrices; hyperbolic functions; complex numbers; differential equations.
- Further Mechanics: kinematics; forces and motion; projectiles; moments; power, work and energy.
- Further Statistics: probability; statistical distributions; hypothesis testing.
A level Computer Science:
- Year 12: Computational Thinking and Problem Solving; Advanced Programming (Object-Oriented and Functional); Fundamentals of Data Structures and Algorithms; Theoretical Computer Science (Logic, Proofs, and Automata).
- Year 13: Systems Architecture, Networks, and Databases; Cybersecurity and Legal, Moral, and Ethical Issues; Practical Programming Project (20% of the grade); Advanced preparation for university-level computing studies.
Enrichment Opportunities
- We encourage students to explore Maths and Computing beyond the classroom through:
- Maths clubs to engage with puzzles, games, and collaborative projects.
- STEM events, including coding and engineering challenges.
- Access to online platforms and resources for independent learning.
- Dedicated KS5 Maths library.
- Guidance on careers in mathematics-intensive fields, including data science, finance, engineering, and academia.
- Tailored support to prepare for university admissions tests, such as MAT, STEP, or TMUA.
- Collaboration with local universities for enrichment sessions and summer schools.
- Weekly coding clubs to enhance problem-solving and programming skills.
- Guest lectures and workshops by professionals and academics in technology fields.
- Opportunities to explore emerging technologies, such as AI and robotics, during STEM events.
- Access to online IDE platforms for independent coding practice.
- Chess Club.
Opportunities for Scholars
- For those with a particular passion and aptitude, we offer:
- Participation in national and international mathematics competitions, such as the UKMT Challenges.
- Guest lectures and workshops by professionals and academics in mathematical fields.
- Opportunities to tutor or mentor younger students within the school and wider community.
- Participation in national and international competitions, such as the Bebras Challenge and CyberFirst.
Our cluster is dedicated to helping every student achieve their full potential, whether they are mastering the fundamentals or reaching for the stars as scholars of the subject. We look forward to supporting their journey!
