Intent
The maths curriculum at GM school is designed to enable pupils to become maths literate, keen problem solvers and develop fluency in procedures.
We provide a demanding and interesting curriculum that enables pupils to discover patterns in data, reasoning and analytical skills for problem solving, and how these processes link to their wider applications. We are committed to developing students’ passion for mathematics as well as an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematical reasoning.
Implementation
EYFS
Mathematics is taught in EYFS through adult-led, adult initiated and child-led activities. Children are provided with a rich stimulating learning environment where sustained interactions take place between children and adults, in order to deepen their mathematical understanding. Mathematics lessons in the EYFS are followed by carefully planned play-based opportunities for children so that they can apply and embed their mathematical skills and knowledge. The curriculum is sequential and provides opportunities for retrieval and application of key concepts as well as developing their mathematical vocabulary. Our Maths curriculum follows the EYFS framework and is supplemented by White Rose Maths which provides strong foundations for children’s mathematical learning in KS1 and beyond. NCETM interventions are used in Reception to provide additional support where required.
KS1
Mathematics lessons are delivered daily. Lessons are underpinned by the National Curriculum and our programme of study is White Rose Maths. In KS1, pupils are taught key skills in a logical sequence. Each lesson begins with retrieval practice of prior learning. They learn new concepts initially using concrete examples, such as counters and Base 10, then progress to drawing pictorial representations before finally using more abstract symbols, such as the equals sign. Pupils are encouraged to build on their learning in the EYFS by reasoning about, exploring and explaining their methods in greater detail. Pupils sit a PUMA paper at the end of each term, in order to support teachers in assessing progress to date. Catch-up interventions are used to ensure that all children are supported to make strong progress.
KS2
Key skills continue to be taught daily in a logical sequence through KS2 using White Rose Maths. Each lesson begins with retrieval practice of prior learning. These skills are reviewed and consolidated as well as built upon. Our curriculum emphasises conceptual understanding, problem solving and reasoning and promotes enjoyment of Mathematics through its application to real life situations. We encourage children to share their mathematical thinking, to develop mathematical fluency and to challenge themselves in all lessons. Catch-up interventions are also used in KS2 to support our children.
Mathletics
We use Mathletics to rehearse known concepts at home and at school. Contact your child’s teacher if you need a login reminder. Homework is set weekly by teachers.
TT Rockstars
All children in the school have access to TT Rockstars to support the development of their multiplication tables. Children in KS2 are asked to practise for at least 5 minutes a day.
Assessment
We assess children in the following ways:
- Assessment for Learning (AfL) takes place at key parts of each and every lesson, so the teacher understands how secure children are with new learning and can support those who need extra help.
- End of Unit assessments are short tests which cover the key concepts of a unit of learning. These inform next-steps planning for the class and for individuals.
- PUMA (online standardised assessments from Rising Stars) are taken by each child in Years 2-5 at the end of each term. Again, these inform next-steps planning.
- Times tables are assessed regularly, both formally and informally, in Years 2-6.
In addition, in Year 4, pupils sit the statutory Multiplication Tables Check. This is designed to ensure that all children know their times tables up to 12×12, and identify those in need of additional support. At the end of KS2, Year 6 pupils sit arithmetic and reasoning SATs papers.