Mathematical literacy is a primary goal of the school curriculum. Competence in mathematics underpins the successful study of many academic disciplines at Brentwood. Becoming numerate involves developing the ability to explore, conjecture, reason logically, and use a variety of mathematical methods to solve problems. It also involves the development of self-confidence and the ability to use quantitative and spatial information in problem solving and decision making.
As students develop their numeracy skills and concepts, they generally grow more confident and motivated in their mathematical explorations. This growth occurs as they learn to enjoy and value mathematics, to think analytically, and to understand and appreciate the role of mathematics in everyday life.
The Brentwood mathematics curriculum emphasizes the development of numeracy skills and concepts and their practical application in higher education and the workplace. The curriculum places emphasis on probability and statistics, reasoning and communication, measurement, and problem solving. As far as possible, students are encouraged to apply mathematics to real world problems and to seek out the relationships between mathematics and the world around them. Students use technology to collect and analyse data from their surroundings and to bring a context to their explorations. At the same time, the curriculum investigates the creative and aesthetic aspects of mathematics by exploring the connections between mathematics, art, and design.
