Mathematics
While Mathematics is a compulsory subject up to GCSE level across UK schools, at Palmers Green High School we see it as far more than a statutory requirement. We believe Mathematics is a powerful language of logic and discovery—one that equips pupils with the ability to identify patterns, interpret relationships, make informed predictions, and understand how data connects events across disciplines.
Our Mathematics Department is committed to fostering a deep and lasting understanding of mathematical principles. These foundations are essential not only for success in Science, Music, Business, and the Arts, but also for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills that extend beyond the classroom. We strive to make learning mathematics both enjoyable and interactive, encouraging pupils to take an active role in exploring and applying concepts.
At PGHS, pupils follow the National Curriculum through to GCSE level, studying the Edexcel 9–1 Higher Tier qualification. The syllabus includes key areas such as:
- Number
- Algebra
- Geometry (Shapes, Space and Measures)
- Statistics and Probability (Handling Data)
For a detailed overview of the course content, please click HERE to see the GCSE curriculum.
Year 7
Pupils are taught in small mixed ability groups. They have five periods of Mathematics per week, each thirty-five minutes long. These are organised as two double lessons and one single lesson.
Year 8
Pupils are taught in small mixed ability groups. They have five periods of Mathematics per week, each thirty-five minutes long. These are organised as two double lessons and one single lesson.
Year 9
As in Year 8, pupils are set into groups. This setting is based on the results of tests taken during the previous year, summer examination results, pupil confidence and teacher assessment. The size of each group varies according to the ability and needs of each year group. The sets are blocked on the timetable to allow for movement of pupils between groups. They have six periods of Mathematics per week, each thirty-five minutes long. These are organised as three double lessons.
Year 10 – Year 11 – GCSE
Please click HERE to see the GCSE curriculum.
OCR Additional Mathematics (Extra GCSE)
The Maths Department offers the OCR Level 3 Additional Mathematics qualification as an extra GCSE option for high-achieving students who have a strong interest in maths.
This challenging course extends beyond the standard GCSE curriculum, introducing advanced topics such as algebra, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. It helps bridge the gap between GCSE and A Level Mathematics, providing an excellent foundation for further study.
Students who take OCR Additional Maths gain valuable experience in problem-solving, logical reasoning, and mathematical modelling — skills that are highly beneficial across many STEM subjects.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Chess and Puzzle Club.
Participation in the Chess and Puzzle Club promotes a positive attitude towards Mathematics, and reinforces critical thinking skills in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.
Maths Surgery
The Maths Department provides a number of surgeries throughout the week in order to give one-to-one support to pupils who would like extra help with a particular topic, or who have been absent and have missed work. Surgeries are very popular and well attended, and they enable pupils to gain confidence and consolidate their learning.
UKMT Mathematical Challenge
All Year 7 and 8 pupils take part in the UKMT Junior Mathematics Challenge and all Year 9, 10 and 11 take part in UKMT Intermediate Mathematics Challenge. The UKMT Mathematical Challenges are designed to stimulate interest in Mathematics. They are tests of reasoning and mental agility, and we prepare our pupils for these tests.
