Maths

What is the subject objective?

Application of Maths and independent skills at Redwood Park is a key priority within Maths as a discrete subject and across the whole curriculum. It is our intent to enable pupils to express their wants and needs, opinions and preferences through the different methods of communication used individually to build on their Maths knowledge and application of Maths in a functional capacity.

Maths is divided into three core areas:

Number
Measure
Using and Applying
Data Handling
Shape and Space

How is the subject delivered?

Maths is a core subject that is taught throughout the week. There are 5 x 40-minute lessons a week, as well as plenty of opportunities to support maths implementation and understanding in a variety of different lessons such as life skills, work related learning and option lessons. There is a Maths long term map that is levelled towards the ability of pupils based on their capabilities within the subject and looking forward at what an appropriate assessment/qualification would be for each pupil by the end of Year 11.

A key focus at Redwood Park is to meet the individual needs of each pupil based on their EHC plan and the targets set for their progression into adulthood. This comes under 4 categories: Education, Training, Higher Education or Support Work Experience, Participation in Society, Independent Living and Being Healthy. Within these categories there are lots of Maths related targets that are integrated within Maths lessons and across the wider curriculum.

Understanding the academic pathway for each pupil helps to map which Year 11 exam or assessment they will approach, be that Personal Progression Awards, Functional Skills Entry Level 1,2,3 or Functional Skills Level 1 or 2. For a very few pupils, the opportunity to prepare for and sit a Maths GCSE will be considered and delivered. It is the school’s intent to provide the right, aspirational opportunity for all pupils so they progress to their Post 16 placement with the best qualifications appropriate to them.

Impact and accreditation

The impact of the Maths curriculum is regularly monitored to ensure that it is suitable, relevant and up to date to meet the needs of the current cohort of pupils.

As there are different pathways for the pupils to take that best suits them, regular assessment of learning is undertaken to obtain the accurate pathway for everyone. Evidence is collected to show progress as well supporting achievement of their EHCP targets. There is also a well structured and comprehensive scheme of work that links the pupils’ skills and capabilities to the correct pathway.

In Key Stage 3, evidence is collated and assessed by teachers, who then in turn use their professional judgment to assess progress, strengths and areas of concern. This is also then shared with adults at home in the form of report and annual reviews.

Once pupils reach Key Stage 4, pupils are working toward formal assessment/qualifications. The assessment ranges from Personal Progress to Functional Skills - Entry 1, Entry 2, Entry 3. Teachers will enter each pupil for the appropriate level assessment, with the flexibility to be entered in more than one to ensure that they leave with the best possible outcome.

Reading across the curriculum

Word problems within the Maths curriculum can pose particular barriers for some pupils. Using reading support strategies, Maths worded problems are interrogated and broken down to ensure that each pupil understands what is being asked. Using phonic strategies to understand individual words and sentence structure to gain whole sentence understanding, pupils are encouraged to use all their word reading knowledge to understand the, sometimes, confusing questions. Using real life experiences and examples, pupils will transfer their reading knowledge whilst practicing new skills to develop their ability to use their Maths and reading skills together to become more independent.

Linking with our vision

A working ability to manipulate numbers and apply Maths skills to everyday life situations supports the vision of encouraging and supporting our pupils to be independent. Being confident with money and being able to manage their own time accurately is a core aim within the Maths curriculum.