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Mathematics

Mr A Guy MEng (Hons)
Head of Mathematics
aguy@colfes.com

Mathematics is the keystone to the modern technological world in which we live. It enables us to understand our physical environment through sophisticated modelling techniques and is the ultimate language of strategical reasoning. Its veracious nature spans many other fields including economics, logistics, computer science and artificial intelligence.

Pupils in Year 7 combine recapping basic numeracy with investigation tasks and problem solving is our core focus throughout the school. Setting of students in mathematics does not happen until after the first term of Year 7 is complete. This allows efficient and effective teaching and learning in Algebra, Number, Shape and Data, in an environment which is geared to each individual.

Assessment in all years is regular and short, in conjunction with three major examinations throughout each year. We host many weekly clubs – some specialist for year groups where pupils may seek support and assistance and ask any questions.

Mathematics has to be rigorous, but it must be fun too. We enter all pupils into individual UKMT Maths Challenges and compete in the prestigious Hans Woyda competition. In addition, there are numerous other team challenges and we are always keen to promote connections to real world maths by engaging children in Royal Institute lectures. In Year 9 pupils visit Bletchley Park and learn the basics of codes and ciphers. Later in the year, we host the ‘Maths in Action’ day where pupils compete in activities such as financial trading and structural engineering.

In Year 10, pupils commence the IGCSE course. Top set pupils are accelerated to ensure that they complete the course early in Year 11 so that they can then study GCSE Further Mathematics. This A-level bridging course provides extra stimulus and challenge, exposing pupils to methods that will facilitate a better understanding of higher level mathematics.

Each A-level Mathematics class is led by two teachers, thus ensuring students are taught by Mechanics and Statistics experts, aside from the pure requirements. Further Mathematics provides suitable and extensive challenge for the very brightest candidates who aspire to study Mathematics, Physics or Engineering at university. Problem solving is infused into the courses via Harkness lessons, whereby pupils are regularly given five challenging extra-curricular problems to research, individually or as a group. They are then required to articulate their findings in a student led environment, designed to encourage ideas and allay any confidence issues.

A-level details course:

Art & Photography

The Art & Photography department at Colfe’s is an exciting, creative space that values imagination and intuitive responses, group and individual work.

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Classics

The Classics Department provides three ways in to this ancient past. Latin is offered throughout the school for Years 7-13, Classical Greek is an option in Year 9 and off-timetable in Year 10, and Classical Civilisation is available at both GCSE and A-level.

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Computer Science

Computer Science and IT at Colfe’s allows you to learn the principles of information and computation thinking, understand how digital systems work and how to put this knowledge to use through a range of programming languages.

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Design & Technology

Design & Technology at Colfe’s prepares pupils to take part in a rapidly changing world; learning to think creatively, become problem solvers and innovators, and design products to fulfil needs and wants not yet realised.

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Drama

Our aim is to help you learn how to express yourself, to explore your unique creativity and ultimately to become a confident performer.

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Economics

In Economics and Business the emphasis in the classroom is on developing analytical abilities, encouraging argument from different standpoints and critical examination of data.

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English

English teaching at Colfe’s is focused on developing pupils’ engagement with literature, introducing them to a range of writers and texts, and encouraging them to become independent, proficient readers.

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Eudaimonia

Eudaimonia at Colfe’s is the teaching of the activity of wellbeing. Broadly based on the virtue ethics of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, the word Eudaimonia itself is most commonly translated as ‘flourishing’ by practising virtuous behaviour and engaging with what it means to be human.

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Geography

Our planet is a dynamic, complex and beautiful place. As far as we know it is unique. Studying Geography can help you to understand it, but studying Geography at Colfe’s can help you thrive in it.

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History

The History syllabus at Colfe’s studies some of the most significant events and people in British and World History over the past 2,000 years and aims to inspire a passion for the past.

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Learning Support

Learning Support is based in the heart of the Senior School in a well-equipped classroom with computers, ipads, an interactive whiteboard and an abundance of learning resources and educational games.

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Library

The Library is very much at the centre of the school, and is extremely busy at break and lunch times, and before and after the school day.

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Mathematics

Mathematics is the keystone to the modern technological world in which we live. It enables us to understand our physical environment through sophisticated modelling techniques and is the ultimate language of strategical reasoning.

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Media Studies

Media Studies is about understanding how our world is constructed and how we are encouraged to perceive it. If you understand how the media works, you understand how the world works.

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Modern Languages

Our carefully planned Modern Languages programmes of study will lead you to communicate in modern, real-life situations, using real contemporary language.

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Music

The importance of studying music can’t be overstated; it enables pupils to build confidence through performance, nurture creativity through composition and develop critical enquiry through musical appraisal.

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Physical Education

Through the Physical Education and Sport programme, our pupils experience opportunities to develop skills, which enable them to make informed lifestyle choices in adulthood and a lifelong love of sport and physical activity.

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Religion & Philosophy

Giving pupils an opportunity to engage with the rich history of philosophical and theological thought contributes to their personal growth and ethical development.

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Science

The Science facilities at Colfe's include nine dedicated laboratories with access to notebook computers, so that ICT skills can be used to complement learning.

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How to apply

Find out more about how to apply for Colfe's School. Our main entry points are at ages 3, 4, 11 and 16.