Maths

At Outwoods Primary School, we are committed to the belief that every learner can learn and enjoy mathematics. Our approach to mathematics teaching is built upon the principles of teaching for mastery, where learners are encouraged to reason, make connections, and develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts.

Our curriculum design ensures a coherent and carefully sequenced progression of essential content, aligned with the NCETM (National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics) prioritisation curriculum. We place a strong emphasis on developing a profound understanding of key mathematical ideas, laying a solid foundation for future learning.

Lessons are carefully structured to link to prior knowledge, enabling pupils to access new learning. Each lesson follows a progression of clearly sequenced steps to build secure understanding. We use carefully selected examples, representations, and models to expose the structure of mathematical concepts and highlight connections between them, allowing pupils to build a deep knowledge of mathematics.

We prioritise the development of both procedural fluency and conceptual understanding, recognising that each supports the other. In our lessons, the structure includes exploration, guided practice and independent practice or journaling. Through back-and-forth interactions, including questioning, short tasks, explanations, modelling, and discussions, teachers encourage pupils to think critically, reason logically, and apply their knowledge to solve problems.

To support effective communication and reasoning, we emphasise the use of precise mathematical language, including stem sentences, allowing all pupils to articulate their thinking clearly.

Key number facts are learned to automaticity, and other fundamental mathematical concepts are practiced regularly to reduce cognitive overload. This ensures that pupils can focus on new learning without being hindered by gaps in prior knowledge. In addition, we dedicate extra time for the Mastering Number programs in both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, ensuring that learners build a strong number sense and solid mathematical foundation.

At Outwoods Primary School, we believe that through this rigorous and evidence-informed approach, all pupils can thrive in mathematics, developing a lifelong love for the subject and the skills to succeed.