MATHS

Intent

We believe that every child can succeed in mathematics and have developed our curriculum to ensure all children develop a deep, secure understanding of mathematical concepts. We aim to create confident, resilient learners who enjoy maths and can apply their knowledge in a range of contexts.

Implementation

We have designed our long term overview, in line with the National Curriculum Guidance, to deliver a well structured and consistent approach to maths across the school. Lessons are designed, often supported by White Rose Maths resources, to build on small steps of learning to ensure pupils have time to explore concepts in depth. In the foundation stage, teachers use Mastering Number to introduce and embed key number skills and further maths skills are planned through adult supported activities and child led exploration in provision. Teachers use a range of representations – concrete resources, pictorial models and abstract methods – to support understanding at every stage.

Daily flashback 4 and ‘do now’ sessions reinforce key skills and deepen thinking. Children are encouraged to talk about their maths, use precise vocabulary and use sentence stems to engage in rich mathematical discussion.

From Year 1 – Year 5, children have an additional 15 minutes of maths outside of the main lesson following the ‘Mastering Number’ programme (NCETM). This consists of opportunities for exploration of key number facts and class discussion. In EYFS and KS1 this includes subitising and additive relationships and in KS2 explores multiplicative relationships.

Impact

Through our mastery approach, pupils develop a strong number sense, secure fluency and have the confidence to tackle unfamiliar problems. They begin to explain their thinking clearly, justify their methods and make connections.

How are we preparing our children for the MTC?

Children in year 3 and 4 are assessed regularly for their gaps in times table knowledge and where gaps are present, are picked up in daily interventions.

Whole class times table practice takes place daily in year 4 through games, chanting and recall activities.

We use Times Table Rock Stars to further support times table practice at home where children can work towards targets on the programme and earn coins.

How is Maths assessed?

Verbal and written feedback is provided, in line with school marking policy, which informs planning and delivery. Teachers will use teacher assessment and SIMs assessment tools to ensure all children are gaining skills progressively. At the end of each term, NTS assessments are used to track and monitor the progress made.