Mathematics
Intent
We aim to develop confident mathematicians who are fluent in key number facts and skilled in mental and written strategies. Our curriculum provides a deep conceptual understanding of mathematics, enabling pupils to reason, problem-solve, and use precise mathematical language to articulate their thinking. We believe that mathematics is a vital life skill, and our goal is for every child to have the confidence and resilience to engage with mathematics and to use it purposefully in everyday life.
Our maths curriculum is underpinned by the National Curriculum and supports pupils in meeting the end of Key Stage Attainment Targets. It is shaped by our commitment to the following curriculum pillars:
Aspiring for Excellence
We are committed to ensuring that every child can achieve excellence in mathematics. Through the Concrete – Pictorial – Abstract approach, concepts are introduced in a tangible way, enabling pupils to engage with learning in a hands-on, visual manner before progressing to abstract thinking. This approach builds confidence, resilience, and an understanding that persistence is key to mastering mathematical concepts. We foster a positive attitude towards mathematics, where children embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. With regular practice, we enable pupils to achieve fluency and develop their skills to the highest standard.
Enriching Language and Communication
Mathematical language is integral to our curriculum. Children are encouraged to use precise vocabulary to express their thinking, whether through explaining a calculation or reasoning about a solution. Mathematical talk is modelled by all adults, and pupils are encouraged to use stem sentences to articulate their understanding. Discussions around mathematical concepts deepen pupils' comprehension and extend their thinking. We create a safe and open environment where children can freely communicate their ideas, fostering respect and collaboration in the classroom.
Cultivating a Strong Community
Our maths curriculum promotes collaboration and a sense of belonging through teamwork, group discussions, and problem-solving challenges. Pupils respect different strategies and support one another in their learning, fostering a strong community spirit. This sense of community is further strengthened through initiatives such as our Times Table Rock Stars Club, where pupils from across the academy work together to improve their multiplication skills. We also believe in the importance of a home-school partnership and offer workshops to support parents in guiding their children’s mathematical journey, particularly in relation to homework and our Times Table Rock Stars platform.
Broadening Horizons
Mathematics transcends cultural boundaries, and we actively integrate diverse perspectives into our curriculum. We celebrate the contributions of mathematicians from various backgrounds and cultures, such as Katherine Johnson, whose work is explored in Year 5 during their Earth and Space unit. We also take part in the NSPCC Number Day, linking our maths curriculum with charity work to raise awareness and funds for an important cause. Through these initiatives, we broaden our pupils' horizons, helping them see the global relevance of mathematics and the impact it has on society.
Building a Knowledge-Rich Foundation
We prioritise building a strong, knowledge-rich foundation in mathematics. From Early Years onwards, we ensure that pupils develop a robust understanding of number, which serves as the building block for all future mathematical learning. Our curriculum is structured to ensure that learning builds progressively, with each lesson and concept supporting and deepening pupils' understanding of mathematics. We emphasise fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving as essential skills for all pupils.
Implementation
Our teaching follows a mastery approach, informed by White Rose, which allows concepts to be broken down into small, manageable steps. This ensures coherence across the curriculum and helps pupils develop a deep, adaptable understanding. Our focus on number is reinforced in Early Years through daily mathematical activities and continuous provision, embedding foundational concepts from the outset.
The Concrete – Pictorial – Abstract approach is used consistently across the school to enable pupils to make connections between different representations of mathematical concepts. We integrate regular times tables practice through our Times Table Rock Stars platform, where pupils complete homework tasks and engage in fun, timed challenges. Each week, we celebrate achievement through certificates, reinforcing the importance of effort and persistence.
Assessment informs the teaching and learning process, allowing teachers to address misconceptions and ensure that each pupil's understanding deepens. We also engage with professional development opportunities through our local Maths Hub, ensuring that our teachers are up-to-date with the latest pedagogical practices.
Impact
Our coherent, progressive, and robust maths curriculum ensures that pupils develop a confident and positive attitude towards mathematics. They will have a deep and secure understanding of number and be fluent in mental and written strategies. Pupils will be resilient mathematicians who embrace mistakes as a valuable part of the learning process. They will possess a range of strategies to solve problems and use precise mathematical vocabulary to articulate their reasoning. Ultimately, our pupils will be able to apply their mathematical knowledge and skills to increasingly complex problems, demonstrating both confidence and competence in mathematics.