Maths

Maths - our intent

At Checkendon Church of England (A) Primary School, our mathematics curriculum is designed to inspire a love for numbers and problem-solving, and to equip our pupils with the essential skills needed to navigate the world confidently.

• Foundation of Knowledge: We aim to provide a strong mathematical foundation, ensuring our pupils grasp fundamental concepts and skills. This knowledge serves as a building block for more complex problem-solving and reasoning as they progress.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Our curriculum encourages pupils to approach mathematical challenges with confidence and creativity. We foster critical thinking and the ability to apply mathematical reasoning in real-life scenarios.

• Engagement and Enjoyment: We strive to make mathematics engaging and enjoyable, using a variety of teaching methods and resources that cater to different learning styles. We believe that enjoyment of mathematics leads to better learning outcomes.

• Continuous Progression: Our curriculum is structured to ensure continuous progression, with each year building on the skills and knowledge acquired previously. We support every child to reach their full potential through differentiated learning.

• Cultural and Real-World Connections: We incorporate real-world applications and cultural references in our teaching to make mathematics relevant and meaningful. This approach helps pupils appreciate the value of mathematics in everyday life.

Maths - our implementation 

Our dedicated teaching staff employ a multifaceted approach to deliver our maths curriculum effectively. This approach includes:

1. Whole-Class Instruction:

   • Teachers use interactive teaching methods to engage all pupils during whole-class lessons. This includes the use of technology, visual aids, and practical demonstrations to make abstract concepts more tangible.
   • Lessons are carefully planned to align with the curriculum objectives and are sequenced to build on pupils' prior knowledge.

2. Group Work:

   • Pupils are grouped strategically based on their understanding and ability, allowing for peer learning and collaboration.
   • Group tasks are designed to encourage problem-solving and critical thinking, and teachers rotate among groups to provide targeted support and feedback.

3. Individual Practice:

   • Each pupil is given opportunities to practice independently, reinforcing their learning through exercises that cater to different levels of difficulty.
   • Teachers provide individual feedback to help pupils understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

4. Regular Assessments:

   • We conduct regular formative assessments to monitor pupil progress and identify learning gaps. This includes quizzes, observation, and pupil self-assessments.
   • Assessment data informs our teaching, allowing us to tailor interventions and support to meet individual needs. This ensures that every child has the opportunity to make progress, regardless of their starting point.

5. Use of Manipulatives and Representations:

   • Teachers integrate manipulatives like base ten blocks and visual representations to help pupils conceptualize complex mathematical ideas.
   • These tools are gradually phased out as pupils gain confidence and mastery over the concepts.

6. Professional Development for Staff:

   • We invest in continuous professional development to ensure our teaching staff is equipped with the latest pedagogical strategies and resources in maths education.
   • Staff are encouraged to collaborate and share best practices through regular meetings and workshops.

This comprehensive approach ensures that we address the diverse needs of our pupils and maintain high standards in maths education. 

Maths - our impact

We are committed to ensuring that all pupils develop a strong mathematical understanding and are well-prepared for the next stage of their educational journey. Our maths curriculum is designed to instill a positive attitude towards learning mathematics, fostering confidence and resilience in every child.

Key Outcomes:

1. Mathematical Proficiency: We aim for our pupils to achieve proficiency in mathematical skills and concepts, enabling them to solve problems confidently and apply their knowledge to real-world situations. This includes developing fluency in arithmetic, reasoning, and problem-solving abilities.

2. Engagement and Enjoyment: By incorporating engaging and interactive teaching methods, we strive to make mathematics enjoyable and accessible for all pupils. We believe that fostering a love for maths is crucial in developing lifelong learners who are curious and enthusiastic about the subject.

3. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Our pupils are encouraged to think critically and approach problems creatively. Through collaborative activities and challenges, they learn to analyze, evaluate, and devise solutions, preparing them for future academic and life challenges.

4. Confidence and Resilience: We focus on building pupils' confidence in their mathematical abilities, ensuring they have the resilience to tackle new and complex problems. Pupils are taught to view mistakes as learning opportunities, promoting a growth mindset.

5. Preparation for the Future: Our curriculum is aligned with national standards and designed to prepare pupils for the next stage of their education. We ensure that they have a solid foundation in mathematics, equipping them with the skills necessary for secondary education and beyond.

Through our dedicated and skilled teaching staff, supportive learning environment, and a curriculum that is both challenging and inclusive, we aim to achieve these outcomes for all pupils. We are committed to continuous improvement, regularly reviewing and adapting our approach to ensure every child reaches their full potential in mathematics.