Mathematics

Intent

Mathematics Teaching for Mastery following The White Rose Scheme.

At Biggin Hill Primary School, we want our children to enjoy mathematics and thrive on the challenge of solving puzzles and problems using their mathematical skills. They should be able to articulate their thinking and develop resilience and perseverance through challenge, leading to a true sense of pride and achievement. We ensure that each individual is ready for the next stage in their learning and achieves their full potential.

Implementation

In EYFS, children follow the Mathematics Educational Programme from The Statutory Framework for Early Years Foundation Stage. Reception use Mastering Number to deliver the EYFS maths number curriculum. This is a teacher-led session of 10-15 minutes to ensure that children develop fluency with, and understanding of, number that is crucial to future success in maths and academic progress more generally. The children are encouraged to have a go at the maths activities laid out for them in their continuous provision, inside and outside the classroom, which are linked to their maths session. 

Arithmetic

Throughout the week, Year 1 and 2 are taught Mastering Number to develop their arithmetic. The aim is that children will leave KS1 with fluency in calculation and a confidence and flexibility with number. The teaching builds on what the children learn in Reception and is progressive. 

Mastering Number in KS2 focuses on children securing firm foundations in multiplicative relationships, as opposed to the additive reasoning which they learn in KS1. We want our children to be secure with multiplication and division as its application forms the single most important aspect of the KS2 curriculum, and of course, is the gateway to success at secondary school. 

Mathematics Teaching

White Rose planning is used as a main basis for all year groups. We also use online support such as the NRich website and the NCETM support materials.

The units are split into terms and the curriculum is progressive as they move through.  Concepts are built on both within the academic year and skills from the previous year.  Manipulatives are used to help children expose the structure of the mathematics and to further support understanding and making links.  Problem solving and reasoning tasks are used to deepen understanding of a secure concept.  Vocabulary and Stem Sentences are also used to help children verbalise their learning.  

Impact

Using the "Mastery" Approach allows our children to become critical Mathematicians.  They can make links easily and, using automatic fact recall, can apply their learning to a range of new situations and concepts.  They can use appropriate representation or vocabulary to explain their thinking.  They become fluid thinkers that can apply learning and solve unfamiliar problems.  By deepening children's maths understanding, they will have a richer understanding rather than merely moving up through knowledge without a solid grounding.  Teaching classes together also builds children's confidence in their mathematical understanding and their self-esteem. Our children enjoy their maths lessons and are keen to make connections to the real world.