Maths

At Gleadless, our intent for mathematics is to teach an ambitious, varied and progressive curriculum that allows children to become fluent in key skills and foundational knowledge in order to be able to reason and problem-solve with confidence. To develop a robust understanding of number, we believe that all children should have the opportunity to explore concepts through the use of concrete resources and pictorial and abstract methods. We recognise the importance of arithmetic proficiency. We know that fluency demands our children to be efficient, accurate and flexible. Therefore, we provide them with opportunities to practice skills, manipulate numbers, make connections, expose and discuss patterns and link maths to the real world. Maths is explicitly taught daily from Year 1 - Year 6. In Foundation Stage 1 and 2, children are exposed to elements of maths everyday through teacher-led sessions and the continuous provision. Maths is taught within the mastery approach following the National Curriculum. Teachers use White Rose Maths and NCETM to support their planning and teaching. 

At Gleadless we are mathematicians that: 

• Are confident and curious learners and problem solvers
• Are resilient and try new things  
• Question and notice 
• Learn from our mistakes 
• Work collaboratively 
• Talk like a mathematician 
• Enjoy maths

We believe that every child can succeed in maths and during maths lessons we ensure;  

• That classrooms are a safe place for children to explore and make mistakes, understanding that these are fundamental to learning. 
• Learning is carefully planned in small steps which builds on prior knowledge and learning. This allows children to develop their fluency, problem solve and reasoning skills. 
• Children are exposed to a wealth of vocabulary to support their understanding. They are also supported to explain their thinking through full, coherent sentences.
• Concepts are clearly modelled by the teacher and children are guided through new processes. 
• All children have the opportunity to work with concrete resources on a regular basis.
• Children have the opportunity to work collaboratively with their peers questioning, exploring and noticing. 
• Children are engaged with their learning, have fun and are confident in their own abilities.

Maths in EYFS

In EYFS, teachers use the EYFS statutory framework alongside NCETM to support the planning and delivery of the Maths curriculum. High quality learning environments are fundamental in supporting our FS children with their understanding of number. Meaningful interactions with adults are crucial to support our children in developing mathematical thinking and discussion. 

You can find our Maths Policy here.

Additional resources

Gleadless subscribes to both NumBots and Times Table Rockstars. Both platforms are used within school and at home which can be accessed through individual logins. These logins are sent out at the beginning of the year and teachers monitor usage and progress made by the children. Both platforms support pupils' development of fluency and number skills.