Testing Times

This Teachers TV resource explores how strong leadership and a broad based mathematics curriculum are key factors in creating an outstanding mathematics department at Oaks Park High School in Essex.

The mathematics department aim to give all students the chance to get the best grades they can and have introduced a booster programme for those Year Eleven students who are re-sitting GCSE, to obtain a grade C or better. Each student on the programme is assigned a mentor, with whom they meet regularly, to discuss their progress and highlight areas for further development.

Students really appreciate the effort and support the department are providing with the result that 30 percent of GCSE students go on to study mathematics at A Level. Mohammad Bashir, who is the Key Stage Three Co-ordinator at the school explains how Stephen has inspired him as both a student and a colleague.

Gifted and talented students complete GCSE Statistics in Year Ten and those who do not wish to continue studying mathematics, after early entry at GCSE, are involved in mentoring their peers who are on the C/D borderline.

The various strategies that have been put in place by Stephen Froggatt, Head of Mathematics at the school, together with the positive input from other members of the department, are key to the outstanding rating awarded by Ofsted.