It has been recognised that good basic numeracy is far wider than simply "knowing your tables". There is a whole range of mental strategies which need to be laid in a young person's mind, and a rich fabric of intersecting concepts which need to be woven both through routine exercise and creative, motivating activities.   At Orwell Park we aim to work as a team, from the teachers of the youngest mathematician learning about one-to-one correlation ('counting') in the Nursery to those instructing the scholars in Form VI in the gentle art of solving simultaneous equations. We aim to encourage and motivate our pupils to use numbers, not only as an everyday tool but as a way of appreciating a wonderfully ordered universe. We strive to co-ordinate our teaching of mathematics so as to serve other subjects of the curriculum.

During the first two years children are taught in their forms. A variety of learning styles is used: individual, group and class teaching giving the children a range of experience of using numbers. On entry to Form III a setting system is introduced which helps all children to succeed at their own level.  

Pupils are carefully prepared for both the 13 Common Entrance as well as public school scholarship papers. We also provide support for those in need of extra help. Regular assessments are carried out through examinations, preps and classwork, and progress is closely monitored throughout a child's career.  Whilst hard work and dedication will bring their own reward to the diligent pupil,  we also seek to introduce pupils to some of the fun aspects of mathematics through challenges and practical maths activities.  

Rob Hodges