Maths

At Broadmayne we recognise that maths is a creative and highly interconnected subject, a skill we use on a daily basis and an essential part of everyday life. Maths is critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary in most forms of employment. At Broadmayne, we believe a high-quality mathematics education therefore provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason mathematically, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. We believe that the understanding and enjoyment of maths directly impacts on our children's building of cultural capital.

Mathematics forms an important part of our broad and balanced curriculum where we endeavour to ensure that children develop an enjoyment and enthusiasm for the subject that will stay with them throughout their lives and empower them for their futures. We believe that unlocking mathematical fluency is an essential life skill for all learners and is a pre-requisite to being able to reason and solve problems mathematically. Our aim is to develop a positive culture of deep understanding, confidence and competence in maths that produces strong, secure learning.

As a school, we recognise that the key to unlocking the potential in our children is through the development of basic mathematical skills and the understanding of mathematical concepts, and we follow a mastery approach that enables all children the chance to succeed. Rooted in the Concrete-Pictorial-Abstract (CPA) sequence of learning,  our approach enhances mathematical understanding, enjoyment and achievement for every child. Children in all key stages are encouraged to physically represent mathematical concepts, using a range of equipment . Objects and pictorial representations are used to demonstrate and visualise abstract ideas, alongside numbers and symbols. Mathematical concepts are explored in a variety of representations and problem-solving contexts to give pupils a richer and deeper learning experience. We believe that the development of mathematical vocabulary is an essential part of learning and strive to ensure the correct and appropriate vocabulary is taught and understood by all. 

Our maths curriculum is carefully planned to be progressive, using sequences of small step learning blocks from the White Rose Scheme. This is supplemented with resources from the NCETM materials and DfE approved websites. Learning is differentiated through teacher questioning, with a keen focus on “depth” of learning and explanation skills in all areas of the maths curriculum. The use of the DfE Ready to Progress criteria ensures that children are supported in securing the necessary steps to allow them to progress in their learning. Interventions and 1:1 support are delivered where required. 

At KS1, the curriculum is designed to develop competencies to equip pupils for KS2 where they will build on their knowledge, make connections and solve increasingly sophisticated problems, and be fully prepared for their move to middle school at the end of Year 4 - and with a love for maths that they will carry forward into their adult lives!