KS4 Mathematics

For Maths, we will achieve our curriculum vision by ensuring: That all UTC Leeds students are confident problem solvers that can apply mathematical concepts to real-life situations, and demonstrate resilience in their approach.

Overview

Mathematics is fundamental to all STEM pathways at UTC Leeds. It underpins scientific discovery, technological innovation, and analytical thinking across every subject. Our maths curriculum develops resilience, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in any STEM career.

Curriculum Focus:

Mastery Approach: Students focus on deeply understanding mathematical concepts and confidently applying them to both calculator and non-calculator GCSE questions, including complex, multi-step problems.
Non-Negotiables: Core mathematical skills and knowledge are identified as ‘non-negotiables’—essential areas every student must master. These are carefully sequenced over a four-year plan and embedded across the wider curriculum to support cross-curricular learning.

This approach ensures students leave UTC Leeds with strong, transferable mathematical skills that are vital for careers in engineering, computing, healthcare, data science, architecture, and beyond.

Mathematics GCSE Higher or Foundation

Exam board: Edexcel/Pearson

Year 10 sequence of learning:

Linear Algebra
Lengths & Areas
Angles & Shapes
Proportion
Quadratic Algebra
Delving into Data *

*Delving into Data is taught throughout the units to remind students of the increased use of its analysis and interpretation in the modern world.

Year 11 follows:

Lengths & Volumes
Linear Algebra
Angles & Shapes
Proportion
Quadratic Algebra
Delving into Data

We start teaching algebra early in Year 10 and Year 11 so you can use it in subjects like Science, Engineering, and Computer Science.

Students who do not achieve a grade 4 in Mathematics by the end of Year 11 will receive continued support and re-sit opportunities in Years 12 and 13.

Assessment

Choice of 2 tiers Higher or Foundation.

There are 3 papers, one noncalculator and two where calculators are allowed.

For the highest achievers, Level 2 Further Maths is taught alongside their regular GCSE, allowing 2 qualifications to be gained. This extra qualification also gives learners an early insight into what the A-Level in Mathematics looks like as there are many cross-over topics.

For those that need extra support, Functional Skills and Entry Level Certificates are options we consider to allow all learners to leave with a recognised and employer valued qualification in Mathematics.

Employer Links

At UTC Leeds, we integrate maths with other subjects and real-world applications to enhance learning.

Industry Collaborations:

TransUnion (Year 10): Students learn how maths is used to build credit scores and assess lenders through data and statistics.
Yorkshire Water: Students explore how maths ensures water quality in our local network.

These partnerships help students see the practical uses of maths and prepare them for future careers.

Useful Links

www.drfrost.org/ (students will have UTC Leeds usernames for access; used for independent learning tasks)
https://corbettmaths.com/contents/ (free to use, no login required)
https://www.1stclassmaths.com/ (great for revising)