Mathematics
Mathematics is a core subject in the curriculum and Sedbergh's facilities and teaching team provide an ideal learning environment for all pupils.
The Mathematics Department occupies the upper floor of a purpose-built modern
building close to the centre of the School campus. At the core lies a well-stocked
library covering most aspects of mathematics. Classrooms are networked to
the school's intranet and have multi-media projectors and screens.
The department has strong links with the Mathematics Departments of Lancaster
University and St Martin's College from which trainee teachers may come to Sedbergh
for a term's teacher training.
Curriculum and Examinations
All pupils study to IGCSE, taking the two examinations in the Summer Term of
Year 11. A fast track group from the top set has the opportunity to take the
exam early in the Michaelmas Term of Year 11 and this set then goes on to an
early introduction to A-level units. This approach particularly suits those
who may want to study Further Mathematics at A-Level.
A-level
There are on average around 30 pupils in each Year group studying Mathematics
at this level. Six unit examinations covering core (pure) mathematics, statistics
and mechanics are taken over the two years of sixth form and an additional six
are taken for Further Mathematics.
Higher education
At least 30% of Sedbergh's A-level mathematicians go on to study Engineering
or Mathematics-related subjects at university including some at Oxford and Cambridge.
Other related activities
At all levels, from Years 9-13, investigational work is encouraged in the learning
process. The opportunity exists for the brighter pupils to take the UK Senior
and Intermediate Mathematical Challenges and we have had great success in recent
years with many pupils achieving Gold awards.