At the Rosary School, we believe that mathematics is an important foundation stone to learning that embraces every part of life. We want all pupils to experience the beauty and power of mathematics and develop a sense of curiosity and enthusiasm for the subject. In mathematics, we strive for all of our children to see themselves as mathematicians and foster positive ‘can do’ attitudes. We want our children to be confident to ‘have a go’ and talk about their maths; noticing patterns, relationships and making connections.

Our approach to teaching mathematics

We have adopted a Mastery approach to learning and teaching in mathematics.  Mastery means 'being able to use one’s knowledge appropriately, flexibly and creatively and to apply it in new and unfamiliar situations'. Mathematics is taught with the priorities of the curriculum for mathematics at the forefront: fluency, reasoning and problem solving. Our curriculum for maths in designed to enable children to gain secure and deep understanding of a concept in mathematics, then offer the opportunity to go deeper.

We follow the ‘Can Do’ Maths scheme which ensures consistency and progression of skills. The maths curriculum has been structured and sequenced in order to engage pupils in purposeful learning by building on prior knowledge and helping to connect knowledge, understanding and skills year-on-year both within maths and across other subjects too.

Our mathematics curriculum starts from Reception, where the principles of the EYFS Framework are followed. Through the use of 'Mastering Number' and ‘Can Do EYFS’ there is the opportunity for pupils to ‘Explore Maths’ and develop an understanding of mathematical concepts through play.  Children are encouraged to use, enjoy, explore, practice and talk confidently about mathematics using reasoning.

Our core aim for all pupils:

• Become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, so that they develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.
• Reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, and develop and present a justification, argument, or proof, using mathematical language.
• Solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of problems with increasing sophistication, including in unfamiliar contexts and to model real-life scenarios.
• Believe that maths is something we can all do and gain enjoyment of mathematics through a growing self confidence in their own abilities.
• Apply their mathematical knowledge to other subjects, using the skills taught.
• See the applicability of mathematics in everyday life.

Knowledge Organisers

Knowledge organisers capture the key learning for each term for each year group. They highlight the key learning, manipulatives and vocabulary that the children will be exposed to in their lessons. Please use these knowledge organisers to support your child at home. 

Further reading

Mathematics Subject Primary School National Curriculum (England)