Chandlers Road, St Albans, Herts, AL4 9RS
Mathematics
Intent
At Skyswood Primary and Nursery School we provide a curriculum which caters for the needs of all pupils and sets them up with the necessary skills and knowledge for future success. We ensure sustained levels of challenge through varied and high-quality mathematical activities, with a focus on number fluency, mathematical reasoning and problem solving. A wide range of mathematical resources are used to ensure practical, concrete and relevant mathematical experiences. Pupils are encouraged to explain their choice of methods and reflect critically on their learning, building a progressive range of reasoning skills. Our children become resilient learners through our growth mind set approach. We aim to develop a love for learning for all children and have high expectations of all pupils in terms of their mathematical potential.
Our Calculation Policy clarifies progression and expectations in calculation with examples that are ‘mathematically transparent’, where process and strategy are central to the child’s understanding. We recognise the importance of children applying their learning to real life situations and the importance of children making relevant links and connections within their learning. We believe that building links between intuitive mental methods (number sense) and written methods of calculation is crucial to each child’s mathematical development.
Maths is my favourite subject, there was a light bulb moment when I suddenly realised that I could work out equivalent fractions!
(Bella - Skyswood pupil))
Implementation
At Skyswood, we ensure that all children throughout the EYFS develop secure mathematical and calculation foundations through an engaging, flexible and age-appropriate curriculum.
Adult-led sessions are supported by learning through play, daily mathematical experiences and a number rich environment. We believe that meaningful and practical exposure to mathematical activities embeds the first building blocks for calculation and mathematical understanding, and underpins future learning.
We use the Herts for Learning Essential Maths to ensure progression and coverage throughout each key phase. Teachers introduce a range of strategies, in line with our Calculations Policy, to ensure full understanding of mathematical concepts prior to learning formal calculation methods. As a school, we have made the decision to fully consolidate a range of calculation strategies that underpin key concepts before progressing to formal calculation strategies in Year 5. All strands of mathematics are covered through a cyclical approach where topics are revisited and built upon as children progress through each year/key stage.
Lessons reflect a high quality of modelling, practical activities, discussions and questioning, along with the use of manipulatives. Children are encouraged to select their own level of challenge in accordance with our ‘limitless learning’ approach, which encourages children to develop a strong growth mind set and excel in the different areas of mathematics without a ‘ceiling’ being applied to their learning.
I love Times Tables Rock Stars and number talks, it’s really helped my confidence in maths
(Hugo - Skyswood pupil)
Impact
Children speak enthusiastically about their love for learning, demonstrating their growth mindset approach and speaking confidently about their chosen methods and strategies. They are able to relate their learning to real life experiences and apply their learning to a variety of contexts.
Pupils know how and why maths is used in the outside world and in the workplace. By the end of KS2 our pupils can confidently articulate the ways in which maths can support their future potential.
Mathematical concepts and skills are mastered in a way that enables our children to confidently explain their thinking using appropriate mathematical vocabulary. They are able to independently apply concepts to new situations and recognise appropriate links between mathematical topics and concepts. We embed this through our ‘number sense’ and ‘number talk’ sessions than run from reception right through to Year 6.
Children are able to demonstrate a quick recall of facts and mathematical procedures. This includes strong number bonds and a good knowledge of their times tables, through Number Gym (Bond Builder & Table Trainer), MyMaths and Times Tables Rock Stars.
Pupils show a high level of pride in the presentation and understanding of their learning.
In Key Stage 1, pupils work through our Maths Card Scheme, which supports the learning of mental maths strategies and strengthens their command of times tables.
I didn’t find maths easy, but teachers really helped me when I was stuck and it’s now one of my favourite subjects
(James - Skyswood pupil)
Supporting Pupils with Special Educational Needs
A personalised curriculum is provided for children who benefit from pre-teaching, rehearsal and the reactivation of previous learning. We use a range of strategies and address needs primarily through quality-first teaching. Where necessary, children will also receive small group intervention to further develop their skills and confidence in the subject. This additional support is planned in detail between staff and senior leaders during termly Pupil Progress meetings.
We ensure children requiring support are scaffolded up in order to access the task and all children are challenged appropriately in order to extend their learning.
Addition VideosNational Curriculum: Mathematics Programme of Study
