Mathematics is the study of how we make sense of the world — from managing money and designing apps to building bridges and predicting the weather.
At Knutsford Academy we aim to deliver a fun and inspiring Maths curriculum that connects learning to everyday life and future careers — using a mix of interactive lessons, real-world problem-solving, collaborative projects, and digital tools to build confidence, spark curiosity, and develop critical thinking skills for success.
The EdExcel GCSE Mathematics Key Stage 4 (KS4) curriculum is structured to build on the foundations of Key Stage 3 and prepare students for further study or careers involving mathematical skills. It is divided into Higher and Foundation tiers, allowing for differentiated learning paths based on students’ abilities. The curriculum covers a broad range of mathematical domains, including:
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Number: Fractions, decimals, percentages, standard form, and bounds.
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Algebra: Expressions, equations, inequalities, sequences, and graphs.
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Ratio and Proportion: Direct and inverse proportion, percentages, and rates of change.
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Geometry and Measures: Angles, shapes, trigonometry (2D and 3D), transformations, and circle theorems.
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Probability and Statistics: Venn diagrams, tree diagrams, averages, histograms, and data interpretation.
Assessment
This qualification is assessed via external exams at the end of Year 11.
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Paper 1 - Non-Calculator 1hr 30 mins
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Paper 2 - Calculator 1hr 30 mins
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Paper 3 - Calculator 1hr 30 mins
Enrichment
UKMT
Further Mathematics Therapy
You can find our full Enrichment Timetable here.
Careers
Maths can help open doors to careers in:
- Accountancy
- Acoustic Engineering
- Actuarial Work
- Aircraft Modelling
- Astronomer
- Business Consultancy
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Engineering
- Financial Manager
- Financial Modelling
- Games Design
- Internet Security
- Investment Analyst
- Investment Banking
- Modelling
- Project Management
- Quantity Surveyor
- Research Scientist
- Software Engineer
- Sound Engineer
- Statistician
- Teacher
Useful links
The following three links require logins which your child will have been given in class. These are a combination of their names, Knutsford and their date of birth.
https://vle.mathswatch.co.uk/vle/
https://www.pearsonactivelearn.com/app/Home
Alternative recommended revision website
https://www.piximaths.co.uk/the-revision-zone
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zqhs34j
Challenge Tasks
Further Maths GCSE
Course Summary
This course offers the opportunity for stretch and challenge that builds upon the KS4 curriculum. It places an emphasis on higher order technical proficiency, rigorous argument and problem solving skills.
The course will require a high level of mathematical ability and clear communication skills. It is a good introduction to statistics at A-level.
In Year 10 the course follows the Edexcel GCSE Statistics syllabus, including:
- Data
- Displaying Data
- Averages and measures if spread
- Analysis of summary data
Probability In Year 11 students will study AQA level 2 Certification in Further Mathematics, this includes:
- Matrix transformations
- Sequences
- Trigonometry Curve sketching
- Assessment
Year 10
At the end of Year 10 students will be entered for Edexcel Award in Statistical Methods level 2 or 3 as appropriate.
Year 11
At the end of Year 11 students will be entered for AQA level 2 in Further Mathematics.
Computer Science GCSE
Course Summary
The advancements in technology are incredible, and whilst IT skills will make students competent users of technology – computer science can unlock students’ potential and position them as the creators of the next technological innovation, ground breaking app or global reaching website.
Computer Science isn’t just about computers!
Bioinformatics is a branch of Biology that involves writing computer programs to analyse medical research and develop medications; Computational Geographers use write computer programs to calculate continental drift and weather patterns; Sports Statisticians write computer programs to analyse athletes’ performance and stamina. Computer Science is an incredibly exciting course that will give all students a solid set of skills to set them up for further studies into Computer Science or any other discipline they choose.
Assessment
Component 1 (Exam 40%)
Students explore the ideas of computational thinking and problem solving and look at how computer programs are developed.
Component 2 (Exam 40%)
Students look at a wide range of computer science topic areas such as networking, security & computer hardware.
Component 3 (Controlled Assessment 20%)
Students apply their knowledge of Python to solve a practical programming problem following a systematic approach.