Intent
At Heathcote Primary School, our intent is for every pupil to develop a positive attitude towards Mathematics. We aim to nurture confidence, resilience, and a genuine enjoyment of the subject by providing a high-quality, well-sequenced curriculum that equips children with essential skills for life.
Mathematics at Heathcote is not only about mastering number facts — it is about developing fluency, reasoning and problem-solving abilities. We encourage curiosity and critical thinking through engaging lessons that demonstrate the relevance of Maths in the wider world. Pupils are supported to develop secure foundations in key concepts and are provided with opportunities to build on prior learning, challenge themselves and make meaningful connections across different areas of the subject.
Aims:
- To ensure all pupils become fluent in the fundamentals of Mathematics, with secure understanding of number, calculation, and measurement
- To develop confident problem-solvers who can reason and justify their methods and solutions
- To enable pupils to apply their mathematical knowledge in real-life situations and across other areas of the curriculum
- To foster a growth mindset, where mistakes are viewed as valuable learning opportunities
- To support all pupils to achieve success while providing appropriate challenge for those who are ready to extend their learning
- To develop mathematical vocabulary and promote clear, accurate mathematical communication
Mathematics is taught from Reception to Year 6 following the National Curriculum. Our teaching is enhanced through the use of the White Rose Maths scheme, which provides a coherent and progressive structure. This ensures consistency across year groups and supports all learners in developing a deep, secure understanding of mathematical concepts.
In Reception, children follow the ‘Mastering Number’ programme to develop strong number sense and early fluency. In Key Stage 1, pupils build on this foundation by securing key skills in number and calculation, while beginning to explore shape, measure, and simple data handling. In Key Stage 2, children develop these skills further and apply them in more complex contexts, including fractions, decimals, percentages, algebra and reasoning.
To support conceptual understanding, we use the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) approach. Pupils begin by using practical equipment (concrete), progress to visual representations (pictorial), and then move to formal written methods and abstract reasoning. Resources such as Numicon, Base 10, place value counters and number lines are used throughout the school to support learning.
Each Maths lesson follows a clear six-part structure, promoting fluency, problem-solving and reasoning. Teaching is tailored to meet the needs of all pupils. Children who grasp concepts quickly are offered rich and challenging tasks, while those who need additional support are given targeted intervention and opportunities to revisit and consolidate prior learning.
We also enrich our Maths curriculum through the use of high-quality resources from NCETM, NRICH, I See Reasoning and Classroom Secrets, offering pupils a variety of learning experiences that deepen understanding and foster enjoyment.
Regular assessment allows teachers to identify gaps in understanding and tailor future teaching accordingly. Calculation policies are consistently applied across the school, ensuring clear progression in both mental and written methods.
A strong emphasis is placed on the use of accurate mathematical vocabulary, which is modelled and explicitly taught by staff and used by pupils to articulate their thinking with clarity and precision.
Impact
By the end of their time at Heathcote Primary School, pupils will:
- Demonstrate fluency in number facts and calculation strategies
- Be confident and resilient problem-solvers who can reason mathematically
- Apply their mathematical knowledge across a range of contexts, including real-life situations
- Communicate mathematical ideas clearly using appropriate vocabulary
- Approach the subject with enthusiasm and a belief in their own ability to succeed
We celebrate mathematical achievements and work in partnership with parents to support all children on their mathematical journey. Our aim is for every child to leave Heathcote with the skills, confidence and enthusiasm they need to succeed in Mathematics and beyond.
