Maths

As mathematics underpins every aspect of modern life, the Mathematics Department strives to be a leading academic force within Wellesley, while remaining at the forefront of educational best practice. Our lessons are designed to be engaging, stimulating, and purposeful, enabling pupils to understand the relevance of mathematics in the world around them and make meaningful connections to real-life situations. 

Our ambition is for every pupil to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and the confidence to approach challenges with resilience and independence. We aim not only to equip pupils with essential mathematical knowledge and skills, but also to ensure they can apply these accurately, efficiently and creatively in a variety of contexts. We encourage pupils to recognise relationships between mathematical ideas and to appreciate the fundamental role mathematics plays in everyday life. 

All pupils are encouraged to enjoy exploring mathematics and to develop a positive attitude towards the subject. Through this enthusiasm, they acquire the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to reach their full potential. Alongside developing strong number fluency, pupils regularly practise and refine wider skills such as communication, problem-solving, logical reasoning and organisation. Equal emphasis is placed on number, geometry, measurement and statistics, while algebraic thinking is introduced and developed from Year 6 onwards. 

In the Pre-Prep, pupils follow the White Rose scheme of work, which incorporates class workbooks, challenge activities, collaborative learning opportunities and regular formative assessments. In Year 3, pupils continue to follow an adapted version of the White Rose scheme, supplemented by weekly numeracy lessons designed to deepen understanding and develop confidence. 

From Years 4 to 6, pupils follow a carefully structured programme that prepares them for the 11+ Pre-Tests. Teachers use a range of engaging and challenging activities, alongside regular end-of-unit assessments, to monitor progress and inform teaching. In Years 7 and 8, pupils follow an adapted Common Entrance curriculum. Pupils in Year 8 who are preparing for academic scholarship examinations at senior schools undertake an extended programme designed to strengthen their problem-solving skills and apply their mathematical understanding to more complex and demanding contexts. 

Pupils in Years 3 to 5 participate in a weekly numeracy lesson, providing opportunities for targeted support, personalised challenge and the development of key mathematical skills. 

To further support learning, pupils in Years 4 to 6 use ATOM, an adaptive online platform that provides stretch and challenge tailored to individual needs. Pupils in Years 3 to 8 also use Dr Frost Maths for classwork, homework and revision, helping to consolidate learning and reinforce understanding across a broad range of topics. 

Throughout the year, pupils are given opportunities to apply their mathematical knowledge beyond the classroom. These include participation in the Junior and Intermediate Mathematical Challenges, inter-school mathematics competitions, and educational visits such as the Year 5 trip to the Crystal Maze LIVE Experience, which enables pupils to develop teamwork, logical thinking and problem-solving skills in an engaging and practical environment.