Mathematics

What is mathematics? It is only a systematic effort of solving puzzles posed by nature.
Shakuntala Devi – Mental Calculator and Writer

Mathematics helps children make sense of their world by building skills in calculation, reasoning, and problem-solving. It allows students to recognise and understand patterns and relationships in daily life. Our curriculum is currently based on the scheme from White Rose Education. White Rose Maths.

Early Years Foundation Stage / Key Stage 1

Maths teaching in Early Years Foundation Stage and Key Stage 1 connects ‘number’ with ‘shape, space, and measures’ in meaningful ways. At this stage, pupils grow their mathematical knowledge through hands-on activities, exploring concepts, and engaging in discussion. They practise counting, reading, writing, and ordering numbers up to 100 and beyond, while expanding mental maths abilities and confidently applying these in different contexts. Practical investigations into shape and space help them relate maths to their everyday environment. Pupils are immersed in mathematical language, using it to describe methods and articulate their thinking when tackling problems.

From September 2024, we have introduced 'Mastering Number' from the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM). This new programme runs alongside our regular lessons, promoting fluency and number subitising throughout Key Stage 1 and preparing children for Key Stage 2 mathematics.

Key Stage 2

In KS2, teaching focuses on creating strong links between mathematical topics. Pupils deepen their confidence and skill with the number system, moving from counting to fluent calculation across all four operations. Mental strategies are encouraged before other approaches are considered. Our Calculation Policy outlines the teaching of these methods and their progression, with an emphasis on consistency to avoid confusion.

Pupils investigate aspects of shape and space and refine their measuring skills in varied situations. They share and explain their reasoning with a broader mathematical vocabulary, using diagrams and charts. Pupils also continue their development and understanding of their Multiplication tables before being tested in Year 4 on their progress. They grow a deeper understanding of fractions and their relationship with percentages, decimals before moving on to look at ratio.

How do we support higher attaining pupils?

Higher attaining pupils are usually taught within their class but challenged through tailored tasks and activities, stretching their reasoning and systematic thinking with resources like Nrich, NCETM and White Rose Education. Opportunities for more demanding activities and competitions are provided regularly.

Supporting pupils

Daily maths lessons are suitable for nearly all students, with teachers adapting by task, materials, or adult support. Children not meeting expected progress receive targeted interventions in small groups or occasionally one-to-one, ensuring they get the help they need to tackle challenging areas or master new concepts.

Pupils with special educational needs and EHC plans

Teachers strive to include every child fully in daily maths lessons. Most benefit from the focus on oral and mental work, as well as observing and discussing others' mathematical methods. In rare cases, personalised programmes are offered to meet individual needs.

Calculation Policy -White Rose Maths

Vocabulary progression

Useful websites:

TTRockstars – KS2 children have access to Times Table Rockstars, a maths programme that takes all the worry out of learning Multiplication tables and has a proven track record of boosting children’s fluency and recall in multiplication and division.