Maths and Economics
What is Mathematics?
Mathematics is a creative and highly interconnected discipline that has been developed over centuries, providing the solution to some of history's most intriguing problems. It is essential to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment. A high-quality mathematics education provides a foundation for understanding the world, developing the ability to reason mathematically, appreciate the beauty and power of mathematics, and fosters a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. Mathematics enables pupils to become confident, resilient problem-solvers who can think logically, make connections and apply their knowledge in a wide range of contexts.
Why do we teach Mathematics at HAWI?
At HAWI, we believe that every pupil deserves an ambitious mathematics education which equips them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed in school and beyond. Mathematics provides pupils with powerful knowledge that helps them understand and interpret the world around them, think logically, solve problems and make informed decisions.
Our curriculum develops fluency, reasoning and problem-solving alongside resilience, curiosity and independence. We want pupils to see mathematics as a connected discipline rather than a collection of isolated methods, enabling them to make links between concepts and apply their knowledge in a range of contexts.
Mathematics opens doors to future study and employment. By ensuring that all pupils develop secure mathematical understanding, we aim to raise aspirations and provide access to a broad range of academic and career pathways. Ultimately, we want every pupil to leave HAWI with a positive relationship with mathematics and the confidence to use it effectively throughout their lives.
How do we teach Mathematics at HAWI?
Our mathematics curriculum is built upon the Harris Federation Scheme of Work and is carefully sequenced so that knowledge and skills build cumulatively over time. Concepts are taught in a coherent order, with new learning regularly linked to prior knowledge, enabling pupils to deepen their understanding and retain key mathematical ideas in the long term. Each topic is framed by a 'Big Question' which highlights the powerful knowledge pupils are expected to learn and remember, with each lesson’s aims broken into a learning challenge and an extra challenge, both of which give students a good understanding of what they are learning.
At Key Stage 3, pupils are taught in ability streams whilst accessing a shared, ambitious curriculum. All pupils study the same core mathematical content, ensuring that prior attainment does not limit access to mathematical knowledge. Teachers use carefully planned modelling, questioning, vocabulary instruction and responsive teaching to provide appropriate support and challenge for all learners.
Reasoning, problem-solving and mathematical communication are central to our curriculum. Through structured discussion, pupils explain their thinking, justify their methods and evaluate the reasoning of others. Teachers deliberately develop pupils' use of precise mathematical language through strategies such as Write, Turn and Talk, helping them to become confident and articulate mathematicians.
At Key Stage 4, pupils follow either the Foundation or Higher pathway, with teaching designed to maximise achievement and prepare pupils for further study. For pupils with a particular aptitude for the subject, opportunities such as GCSE Further Mathematics provide additional challenge and preparation for A Level Mathematics or Further Mathematics, which remains one of the most popular subjects at HAWI.
How do we make Mathematics memorable at HAWI?
We believe that memorable experiences help pupils develop a deeper appreciation of mathematics and its relevance beyond the classroom. Alongside lessons, pupils engage in a wide range of enrichment opportunities designed to inspire curiosity, promote challenge and foster a love of learning.
Pupils regularly participate in mathematics competitions, including monthly quizzes, Federation competitions and the UK Mathematics Trust (UKMT) Challenges. Whole-school events such as Number Day and Pi Day celebrate mathematics through puzzles, investigations and collaborative activities that encourage participation and enjoyment across all year groups.
Educational visits, including trips to Bletchley Park and the London Eye, enable pupils to experience how mathematics underpins developments in cryptography, engineering, architecture and technology. We also work with organisations such as Maths4Girls, helping pupils connect with STEM role models and explore the diverse opportunities that mathematics can unlock.
Selected Year 9 pupils are encouraged to attend Royal Institution Masterclasses, where they explore rich mathematical ideas beyond the classroom curriculum through hands-on workshops led by experts. At Key Stage 5, students are further supported through university outreach programmes and preparation for admissions tests such as TMUA and STEP, helping them access competitive courses and careers in mathematically rich disciplines. Through these experiences, pupils develop ambition, deepen their understanding and recognise the value of mathematics in the wider world.