Head of Department: Mr Robert Barnes

In the Mathematics department at Downe House we aim to provide suitably challenging work as well as promote independent learning. We encourage girls to ’discuss’, ‘explore’ and to ‘do’, and to enjoy the learning journey’.  It is our hope that our enthusiasm for mathematics is reciprocated.

Although we trust that our normal lessons are stimulating enough, we also arrange an annual Puzzle Day for our younger girls, where they have fun tackling problems with pupils from visiting schools, enter girls for the various UK Mathematical Challenges and take older pupils out to any available, suitably interesting and appropriate talks or lectures.

Success in examinations is also important, and girls are prepared for the highest level qualifications that they can achieve. Mathematics was the first department in the School to introduce International GCSE, and all girls are currently prepared for the Higher Tier examinations; Our top set girls also cover the work for OCR Additional Mathematics, which they can opt to sit in Upper Fifth in addition to their International GCSE.

Approximately 50% of girls opt to study mathematics each year in the Sixth Form, both because mathematics is a fascinating subject and because it is a sought-after qualification, currently choosing from A level Mathematics and A level Further Mathematics.

Further information about mathematics may be obtained by contacting the Head of Department, Mr Robert Barnes barnesr@downehouse.net