Our mathematics lessons are based on the National Curriculum programmes of study (2014) and these changes require children to have a grasp of number from a younger age. Reception children are taught using the Statuary Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage. The underpinning values of the new mathematics curriculum are to develop fluency, reason mathematically and solve problems.
During their journey through the school, we teach using C.P.A (concrete, pictorial, abstract) approach. This means that we teach mathematical concepts through concrete resources which allows them to moved and understood in terms of relative size. Following this, we use pictures to represent number and mathematical ideas, as demonstrated by the bar model. This is then followed by abstract mathematics which could be formal written methods such as long multiplication and short division. We use the White Rose Maths materials to support teaching, learning and assessment.
See how the different calculations are taught in each year group using the calculation policies below.
In foundation stage and years 1 and 2, children follow the Mastering Number programme, developed by the Nation Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM), which allows children to develop their sense of number and build up a number of mental arithmetic skills that they will use in larger calculations as they get older.
From year 3 children complete a daily times tables sessions which helps them to learn and recall all times table facts and their related division facts. The programme introduces new facts slowly ensuring children have secured their knowledge before moving on to new facts.
All children in Year 4 are tested on their multiplication knowledge through standardised, government testing.
Times tables knowledge in strengthen by regular practice at home. We provide your child access to NumBots (KS1) and Times Tables Rockstars (KS2) which support, encourage and assess children’s ability in number fluency.