Maths

Our Intent

To change lives by developing future business and engineering leaders through high-quality Mathematics lessons that build problem-solving skills and mathematical confidence. Our aim is to equip learners with the knowledge and resilience needed to succeed in their next steps, whether that be college, sixth form, university, apprenticeships, or employment.

The Mathematics Department also focuses on developing resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills through classroom challenges and collaborative learning.

What Learners Will Study

Learners studying GCSE Mathematics at The JCB Academy will develop problem-solving, reasoning, and analytical skills through the study of key mathematical concepts and their real-world applications. The course builds on prior learning from Key Stage 3 and prepares learners for further study in maths and related subjects.

Content Areas:

• Number – calculations, fractions, decimals, percentages, ratio, and proportional reasoning

• Algebra – expressions, equations, sequences, graphs, and problem solving

• Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change – scaling, direct and inverse proportion, real-life contexts

• Geometry and Measures – properties of shapes, constructions, trigonometry, and measures

• Probability – theoretical and experimental probability

• Statistics – data collection, representation, and interpretation

Examinations

Exam Board: OCR

Three written papers (each 1 hour 30 minutes): 

• Paper 2: Non-calculator
• Papers 1 & 3: Calculator allowed

Each paper is equally weighted (33⅓%)

Tiered entry: Foundation (Grades 1–5) and Higher (Grades 4–9)

Enrichment and Real-World Application

Learners have 10 lessons per fortnight, covering GCSE content and engaging in practical challenges that apply mathematical knowledge to industry contexts:

Year 9: Maths in Motion – exploring the mathematics behind planning an F1 race

Year 10: Rolls-Royce Submarine Challenge – researching, planning, and building model submarines

Homework

Year 9: 30 minutes fortnightly (MathsWatch)

Year 10: 1 hour fortnightly (MathsWatch)

Year 11: 1 hour weekly (MathsWatch), plus GCSE exam papers later in the year

Assessment

Learners complete regular Progress Checks (low-stakes tests) to monitor understanding, alongside longer in-class tests assessing cumulative knowledge.

Additional Qualifications

Selected learners may have the opportunity to study:

• GCSE Further Mathematics
• Functional Skills Mathematics