Mathematics – Ages 16-18

Mathematics A Level teaching staff consists of 7 experienced, skilful, dedicated, inspiring, enthusiastic and passionate teachers.  High expectations, raising the standards of students’ achievements, enjoyment and quality learning experiences are all valued highly.

Students invest significant amounts of time and effort into studying Mathematics A Level and are expected to take responsibility for their learning.  They are tested extensively throughout the course and prepared thoroughly and rigorously for public examinations.

Do not worry about your difficulties in mathematics. I can assure you that mine are still greater

Albert Einstein

Achievements

The value added scores, each year, are extremely high at A Level.  In recent years, A Level Mathematics value added scores have been in or near the top 1% nationally.  Mathematics is the most popular option choice at A Level and the department averages approximately 90% A* – B grades, with 88% gaining A/A* grades in both Mathematics and Further Mathematics in 2017.  Many students leave Ratcliffe and study Mathematics or a related degree at high ranking universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.

Positions of Responsibility

The positions of Mathematics Ambassador are awarded to the best applicants. The post involves significant responsibilities within the Mathematics Department throughout the academic year.

House Competition

You will have the opportunity to enter The House Mathematics competition which is open to all Sixth Form students and continues throughout the year. You could also win a prize, which is awarded at the end of the academic year, for the student gaining the most number of House points in their respective year group.

Competitions

A Level students are entered for the UKMT Mathematics Challenge competition and many achieve Bronze, Silver or Gold Certificates with a number progressing to sit the more challenging papers in subsequent rounds.  Ratcliffe enters the Senior (Years 12 -13) UKMT Team Challenge held at Loughborough University.

The only way to learn mathematics is to do mathematics

Paul Halmos