Mathematics
At The Derby High School, our Mathematics curriculum follows a Teaching for Mastery approach within a structured four-part lesson model. The content draws on real-world contexts, challenges every learner, and equips students with the skills for life needed to think critically, problem-solve, and reason mathematically.
We aim for every student to become confident, fluent and independent, while also collaborating effectively with others. Lessons are designed around Rosenshine’s principles of instruction, ensuring regular review, interleaving and long-term memory development.
Through mastery, students are encouraged to:
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Develop reasoning through diagnostic questions and anchor tasks.
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Explore multiple methods and explain their mathematical thinking clearly.
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Learn through guided examples before working independently.
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Reflect on progress, identify next steps, and support peers in achieving ambitious goals.
Ultimately, our intent is to equip students with the confidence to tackle mathematical challenges, apply knowledge beyond the classroom, and access the broadest possible academic and career pathways.
ESILIENCE Framework
R – Real World
E – Engaging & Enriching
S – Skills for Life
I – Inclusive
L – Leadership
I – Independence
E – Encourages Reflection
N – Next Steps
C – Challenge
E – Ethics & Empathy
KS2 National Curriculum Links
By the end of Key Stage 2, students will have developed understanding in:
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Number and Place Value
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Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division
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Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
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Geometry: Properties of Shape, Position and Direction
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Measurement and Statistics
These core skills provide the foundation for abstract reasoning and algebraic thinking developed throughout Key Stages 3 and 4.
Curriculum Overview
Year 7
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The Maths Derby Way: Foundational models and representations
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Proportional Reasoning
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Reasoning with Algebra
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Similarity and Geometric Reasoning
Year 8
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Directed Number
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Algebraic Techniques
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Reasoning with Number
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Geometry
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Graphs and Relationships
Year 9
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Fractional Thinking
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Developing Geometry and Proportion
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Reasoning with Data
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Delving into Data Sets and Statistical Analysis
Year 10
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Algebraic Thinking and Number Development
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Reasoning with Geometry
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Proportions and Proportional Change
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Revision and Communication Skills
Year 11
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Lines and Angles
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Advanced Representation and Using Number
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Problem Solving and Exam Preparation
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Mathematical Communication and Application
Post-16 Pathways (KS5)
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Pure Mathematics
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Statistics
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Mechanics
These pathways support progression to higher education and a wide range of analytical or technical professions.
Careers in Mathematics
Auditor
Chartered Accountant
Statistician
Maths Teacher or Lecturer
Quantity Surveyor
Software Developer
Actuary
Financial Analyst
Economist
Data Scientist
Cryptographer
Mathematical Research Scientist
Engineer
Forensic Investigator
Pilot
How you can help your child in Key Stage Three:
- Ensure they are doing their homework and ask them to explain it to you.
- Read our calculation policy to see which methods we use for key themes.
- Practise their times tables with them.
How you can help your child in Key Stage Four (Edexcel):
- Quiz them on key formula such as area of polygons, Pythagoras’ Theorem, trigonometric ratios.
- Ensure they are doing their homework and ask them to explain key concepts to you.
- Follow the Mathematics Department on Instagram for key tips and interesting articles about Mathematics and careers in Mathematics.
