Mathematics

For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?
Luke 14:28  

‘Mathematics, rightly viewed, possesses not only truth, but supreme beauty’.   
British logician: Bertrand Russell.

At Radwinter CofE (VA) Primary School, we view mathematics as a vital foundation for our children’s futures, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate every path they choose. Our aim is to nurture independent and successful mathematicians who can apply their mathematical understanding in diverse situations, embracing life in all its fullness.

What will children learn?

From the moment children join us, they are immersed in real-life mathematical experiences, encouraging exploration through playful discovery. This culture of investigation and creativity fosters resilience, enabling our children to become confident mathematicians who embrace challenges with a positive spirit.

Through our mathematics mastery curriculum, we are committed to developing the following skills and knowledge in our children:

• Fluency in Calculation: Children will master efficient calculation methods that empower them to tackle various mathematical challenges.
• Manipulation of Numbers: They will learn to adeptly manipulate numbers and convert between units of measure, enhancing their problem-solving capabilities.
• Understanding Shapes: Children will identify and appreciate key properties of shapes, deepening their spatial awareness.
• Data Interpretation: They will gain skills in collecting, presenting, and interpreting data and statistics, fostering analytical thinking.
• Problem-Solving Methods: Children will explore multiple methods for solving problems, developing flexibility in their mathematical thinking.
• Mathematical Vocabulary: They will use specific mathematical language to articulate their methods, hypotheses, and evidence, enhancing their communication skills.

We aspire for our children to approach puzzles and new discoveries with curiosity, excitement, and determination. Therefore, we aim to create an environment where they feel supported yet challenged, transforming barriers into moments of joy, pride, and confidence.

How Will Children Be Taught?

Our mathematics mastery teaching approach is rooted in the belief that, with the right support and time, all children can achieve their full potential. This approach prioritises deep understanding over speed, ensuring that children grasp concepts thoroughly before moving forward. We employ various representations—concrete, pictorial, and abstract—to enhance understanding, and we provide 'dive deeper' challenges for those who quickly grasp concepts.

Emphasising the ‘why’ before the ‘how’, our teaching reinforces the importance of understanding rather than rote learning. Pupils engage in mathematical discussions that deepen their comprehension and showcase their expertise. They explore concepts through activities such as identifying 'odd ones out', discussing examples and non-examples, and proving hypotheses. Problem-solving activities are integral, fostering systematic thinking, creativity, and connections across mathematical concepts.

To maintain sharp skills, pupils participate in daily fluency and calculation practice (known as ‘Speedy Maths), revisiting previous topics to ensure long-term retention. Targeted homework, using MyMaths, reinforces key skills, while our KS2 pupils also use Times Tables Rockstars to improve their automatic recall of times tables. In KS1, children engage with the White Rose app, 'One Minute Maths', to practice essential skills.

We have developed our own skills progression by integrating the NCETM Ready-to-Progress criteria and White Rose maths progression. Our tailored calculation policy ensures a clear progression of representations, fundamental to maths mastery. Teachers have access to a wealth of resources to create engaging, relevant, and stimulating lessons that inspire a love for maths and discovery.

Mathematics is taught daily in discrete lessons and through cross-curricular links, such as statistics in science, measurement in cooking and shopping, and shape properties in design and technology. We promote curiosity and creativity through theme weeks and special events, such as Barvember, the Primary Maths Challenge and NSPCC number day.

Times tables

We believe that accurate and automatic recall of Times Table facts is an integral life skill that underpins all areas of maths and lays the foundations for being a successful mathematician.

Pupils will be introduced to the different times tables through their maths lessons ensuring a deep, conceptual understanding of each table is developed and pupils do not learn a new times tables without understanding the structure of them.

In addition to maths lessons, pupils in KS2 take part in daily ‘Mastering Multiplication’ sessions which focus on being flexible with numbers, making connections between timestables and applying times tables knowledge in a variety of ways.

Once there is a deep understanding of the structures of multiplication, pupils will then practice for automatic recall when repeated rehearsal, pattern spotting and memory aids will be tools of support.

At the end of each half term, teachers review pupil’s heat maps and celebrate pupil’s successes by presenting awards. Once a child has achieved Platinum, they are part of the ‘The Platinum club’ and they will be striving for automaticity and movement up the ‘Rockstar’ hierarchy on TTRS to ‘Rock Hero’ (answering all questions correctly in less than 1 second).

At the end of Year 4, pupils will sit the statutory Government assessment the Multiplication Tables Check (MTC).

What Will the Outcomes for Children Be?

Through our mastery curriculum, we believe our children will emerge as efficient, reflective, curious, and creative mathematicians. They will tackle problems with resilience and an open mind, equipped with a variety of strategies. Even when faced with challenges, they will persist, exploring different approaches to find solutions. This foundation will prepare them to transition confidently to secondary education, armed with the essential skills to face new challenges.

Throughout their time at Radwinter, pupils are assessed both formatively and summatively, allowing teachers to adapt instruction to meet individual needs and identify those who may require additional support or challenges.

Our commitment to high-quality mathematics education includes engaging with parents through workshops that demystify key elements of maths mastery or help educate parents on our method mats or bar modelling. Parents actively participate in school activities, sharing how they use maths in their careers and engaging with their children in learning experiences.

We teach our pupils to appreciate mathematics as a vital life skill and an integral part of various careers. They leave our school understanding the significance of maths and inspired to apply these skills in their daily lives. We hope our pupils will grow into successful individuals, benefiting from the strong foundation in mathematics they receive at Radwinter.

Bringing our vision to life through Maths

At Radwinter CofE Primary School, we bring our vision of "Growing and learning together to embrace life in all its fullness" to life through our mathematics teaching by fostering an environment where every child feels valued and empowered to explore the beauty and relevance of mathematics in their daily lives. Our mastery curriculum encourages curiosity and resilience, enabling children to tackle challenges with an open mind and a variety of strategies. We prioritise collaborative learning, where pupils engage in meaningful discussions and problem-solving activities, reflecting our values of fairness, respect, and kindness. By integrating real-life contexts and cross-curricular links, we help children appreciate mathematics as a vital life skill that enhances their understanding of the world around them. Through continuous assessment and tailored support, we ensure that each child’s unique learning journey is nurtured, allowing them to flourish as confident, creative mathematicians who are prepared to embrace future challenges with joy and pride.

Join us in supporting your child’s maths  journey:

• Engage in Mathematical Conversations: Encourage discussions about maths at home by asking your child to explain their thinking and problem-solving processes. This helps reinforce their understanding and builds confidence in their mathematical abilities.
• Participate in Workshops: Attend parent workshops offered by the school to learn about maths mastery concepts, such as bar modelling and method mats. This will enable you to support your child effectively and understand the strategies they are learning in class.
• Incorporate Maths into Daily Life: Look for opportunities to integrate maths into everyday activities, such as cooking, shopping, or budgeting. This practical application helps children see the relevance of maths in real-life situations and enhances their problem-solving skills.
• Encourage a Positive Attitude: Foster a positive attitude towards maths by celebrating your child's successes, no matter how small, and encouraging them to persevere through challenges. Your support can help them develop resilience and a love for learning.
• Access Online Resources: Utilise online platforms like MyMaths, Times Tables Rockstars and the White Rose app to reinforce key skills at home. Regular practice through these resources can help solidify their understanding and improve their confidence in maths.