Learning logic, analysis and problem-solving in its purest form
Through the study of mathematics, pupils learn to think precisely, logically and creatively. They develop problem-solving skills that will serve them for life.
Expectations are high because we believe that, with enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and stimulating teaching, pupils can gain a love for mathematics that enables them to achieve results far beyond their original aspirations. The department runs weekday morning maths drop-in sessions throughout the year for pupils wanting extra one-to-one support and, as exams approach, we also run an extensive programme of mock papers and revision sessions. All past papers and revision material are accessible on the internal Maths Site, to which all pupils have access.
Department Overview
Pupils are put in sets relating to ability from the beginning, and their setting is kept under constant review. With up to eight sets in each year group, teaching is tailored to the needs of each pupil.
In terms of qualifications, all pupils sit the Edexcel International GCSE in mathematics at the end of Year 11. This course provides a thorough grounding and preparation for A Levels in mathematics, physics, economics, and other courses that rely heavily on numerical analysis, and problem-solving. Additionally, there are a number of pupils who are capable of studying at a faster rate, and so we also offer the opportunity to study the AQA Level 2 Certificate in Further Mathematics alongside the IGCSE. This exam is also sat at the end of Year 11; it provides a greater challenge to these more able pupils and is excellent preparation for A Level mathematics and further mathematics. In 2022, the first set of exams after the pandemic period, over two thirds of Edexcel IGCSE grades were level 7-9 and over a quarter were level 9. In the further mathematics over 50% achieved a level 9, with almost 90% achieving a level 9-7.
Mathematics is a hugely popular choice at A level at Eastbourne College, reflecting the enjoyment pupils experience in studying the subject here. The mathematical skills of analysis, logical argument, problem-solving, and communication are highly valued by universities and employers. In 2022, 36% of A level mathematics grades were A* and 77% were grades A*-B.
"Mathematics has beauty and romance. It’s not a boring place to be, the mathematical world. It’s an extraordinary place; it’s worth spending time there."
Further mathematics is taken by those who have shown themselves to be among the most able mathematicians in their year group. Nearly all these pupils will ultimately be aiming for places at Cambridge, Oxford and other top universities. As well as preparing pupils for their exams, we aim to stimulate interest and expertise in the subject beyond the confines of the syllabus. For example, the Year 12 further mathematics project has all further mathematicians researching and presenting on an area of mathematics that is connected to their chosen degree course. Anyone of Oxbridge calibre in computer science, engineering, mathematics, or physical sciences is strongly advised to take this course; further mathematicians have been conspicuously successful in obtaining Oxbridge places in recent years. In 2022, 60% of A level further maths grades were A*, with 100% being A*-B.
We aim to give our pupils the best possible mathematical education. For the more able, this will reveal the beauty of mathematical ideas and patterns; for others, it will demystify the subject and inculcate positive attitudes and success. For all pupils, it will enable them to achieve their full potential in exams and enable them to enter the world confident in their mathematical understanding and ability.
Oxbridge Maths
A number of pupils in recent years have successfully applied to read maths at Cambridge or Oxford. For all pupils applying to read maths and related subjects at Oxbridge and other top universities, we offer a support programme outside of lessons that looks at admission tests, problem-solving, Cambridge STEP papers, and interview practice. This weekly programme starts in the Lent term of Year 12. Many universities require applicants to sit admission tests now ahead of offers being made. For those applying to Oxford, there is the Oxford Maths Entrance Test (MAT), and for those applying to Cambridge, you may be asked to do the Test of Mathematics for University Admission (TMUA). Both of these are sometimes requested by many other top universities, both national and international. They are each sat at the end of October/beginning of November in Year 13, and we prepare pupils thoroughly for each of these through additional sessions and one-to-one support. We offer practice interviews ahead of prospective Oxbridge applicants being called for interview in December and then work with any pupils who have a STEP exam in their offer.
Beyond The Classroom
The top sets in each year are invited to enter the National Mathematics Contests. Those who do well qualify for the follow-up Olympiad competitions, targeted at the top 500 pupils in each year across the country. Eastbournians have enjoyed particular success in recent years, reaching the Olympiad and Kangaroo follow-up stages. In 2022/23 alone, we had almost 180 pupils taking part in maths challenges, with over 120 receiving certificates (Gold, Silver, and Bronze). Fourteen also qualified for follow up rounds, with 12 pupils sitting Olympiads, and many of these achieving distinctions. We also enter the junior and senior team challenges. 2023/24 will also mark the debut of interhouse maths, which promises to be a very exciting event.
The department also houses a small library of recommended books which those pupils with a mathematical passion are encouraged to borrow.
