In the Maths Department, we aim to provide girls with a solid grounding in basic mathematical skills; to help them make sense of mathematical patterns and rules; to be able to communicate using mathematical language; to build and develop their problem-solving skills and to foster in them an enjoyment of Mathematics and an appreciation of its useful and beauty in the world.
Studying Mathematics helps to develop skills of analysis, logical argument, problem solving, mathematical modelling and communication and it is also very enjoyable for its own sake. Students learn by doing and they develop a determination not to be beaten by a problem.
We strive to give students the necessary knowledge and skills to achieve academic excellence but also the enthusiasm to take their learning further.
A level
This is a challenging course that is designed to stretch and challenge able mathematicians and prepare them for university courses in mathematics and related quantitative and scientific subjects such as Physics, Engineering and Economics. Some topics which are studied as part of the single mathematics course are extended and other new topics such as matrices, complex numbers and hyperbolic functions are introduced.
Girls take two compulsory papers together with two options papers which can be in the fields of Pure Mathematics, Mechanics, Statistics or Decision Mathematics.
Girls aspiring to continue their education at the highest level are supported in their preparation for STEP/MAT papers.
Co-Curricular
There are many opportunities to use mathematics beyond the classroom and we encourage girls to discover and enjoy this.
The Maths Department has a programme of extra-curricular activities with clubs available including Puzzlemania, the Maths Craft Club and the Chess Club. Year 7 also take part in the Maths Christmas Quiz and the Maths Easter Egg Hunt (for famous mathematicians and a chocolate reward!). We support the NSPCC through Number Day and also celebrate Pi Day with additional activities in school.
Many girls are entered for the UKMT Maths Challenge and every year several achieve Gold, Silver or Bronze certificates. Some girls may qualify for further Kangaroo or Olympiad follow-on rounds.
The Department arranges for occasional guest speakers to talk about the mathematics that they are studying post-16 or that they are using in their careers. Some year 9 girls are given the opportunity to take part in Bromley Maths Master Classes and there are other mathematical visits and lectures organised, including attending the Maths in Action lectures held in London.