At Exmouth Community College, our Mathematics curriculum is designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and grow responsible mathematicians who are ready for a lifetime of learning and prepared for the exciting opportunities of our changing world. We love to connect maths to real life and other subjects, bringing it to life through hands-on problems and practical examples – using the world around us as our classroom. Through engaging challenges and meaningful explorations, students not only grasp fundamental mathematical ideas but also see how essential they are in areas like science, engineering, finance, and technology. 

Grounded in our core values of belonging, ambition, and responsibility, our curriculum gently guides students to develop a deep and connected understanding of mathematics. This helps them make thoughtful, logical choices and approach new challenges with a steady belief in themselves. We encourage every student to 'Think like a Mathematician'—to ask questions, explore ideas, and solve problems—nurturing their critical thinking, clear communication, and a shared sense of discovery. 

At the heart of our approach are five key areas: fluency, reasoning, problem-solving, mathematical communication, and real-world application. We build on these areas step-by-step from Key Stage 3 all the way through to Key Stage 5. This journey helps students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate the fascinating world of mathematics, appreciate its elegance and usefulness, and contribute positively to our data-rich, technologically advanced future. 

Key Stage 3 Curriculum

Students are taught a three-year KS3 programme that follows the National Curriculum and White Rose Maths. This ensures they become fluent in the key fundamental knowledge of mathematics, can reason mathematically and can solve problems, whilst adopting a mastery approach to learning. KS3 students are taught in three parallel populations throughout Year 7, 8 and 9.  They receive 4 hours of direct teaching per week in Year 7 and then 3 hours in each of Year 8 and 9.  Setting is initially done according to KS2 data and baseline assessments and is regularly reviewed to ensure that students are in the most appropriate group. Teaching and learning is focused on ensuring key knowledge is understood, but there are also competitions and events throughout the year. Teachers are encouraged to use a variety of resources, including use of ICT software. One piece of homework of 45 minutes per week is set.

Key Stage 4 Curriculum

Students follow a GCSE Mathematics programme of study and sit GCSE papers using the AQA (8300) board. The GCSE programme of study consists of one non-calculator and two calculator papers, all 1.5 hours in length, and grades are awarded 9–1.  Where suitable, a small group of less able students study for the Entry level certificates with AQA before moving on to the GCSE qualification.  Students are taught in two parallel populations throughout years 10 and 11.  Students are set by ability and all students receive 4 hours of maths teaching per week.  Students are regularly assessed throughout KS4 and movement between sets can occur as a result.  One piece of homework, of around 60 minutes on average, is set per week.  In addition, it is expected that pupils will work independently revisiting topics using Dr Frost and Corbett Maths to support development.