At Shebbear College we teach to inspire the pupil, rather than simply to impart information. Whilst still following the syllabus, we deliver our subject as if we were making the discoveries behind each new theorem or formula for ourselves. We look into the stories behind the discoveries and the discoverers. The lives of the discoverers eg Pythagoras and Descartes, are researched by the students and discussed with reference to their era. We consider that all the various mathematical topics that we cover are part of a long and intertwined story.

New techniques, such as using Cartesian axes for graph plotting, are seen as tools required, and therefore invented, in order to be able to use mathematics in real life. For example, when introducing the use of co-ordinates, I shall hide some treasure and then challenge the students to devise a system to locate it. Here they have the need to define a point in space, hence Cartesian axes.

I think we would all agree that teaching should be about waking and inspiring a pupil’s own desire to learn, and then supporting and encouraging them on their own particular journey.