Mathematics
Developing Confident and Successful Mathematicians
At Grampian Primary Academy, we believe that every child can achieve and succeed in mathematics.
Our mathematics curriculum is designed to develop confident mathematicians who are able to reason, solve problems and think critically about the world around them. We want children to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and the confidence to apply their knowledge in a range of contexts.
Rooted in our belief that success belongs to everyone, we provide an ambitious mathematics curriculum alongside the support and challenge needed for all children to succeed.
Building Strong Mathematical Foundations
Strong mathematical understanding begins in the Early Years.
Children develop secure number sense through the NCETM Mastering Number programme, helping them build fluency, confidence and flexibility with number from the outset of their mathematical journey.
Alongside this, children engage in a wide range of mathematical experiences that develop their understanding of:
- Number
- Pattern
- Shape
- Space
- Measure
- Comparison
- Problem Solving
Through purposeful exploration and discussion, children begin to see mathematics as a meaningful part of everyday life.
Teaching for Mastery
Our approach to mathematics is rooted in the principles of Teaching for Mastery.
We believe that all children can learn and succeed in mathematics when learning is carefully sequenced and builds upon secure understanding.
Children are encouraged to:
- Develop conceptual understanding.
- Make connections between mathematical ideas.
- Explain and justify their thinking.
- Apply knowledge in different contexts.
- Persevere when faced with challenge.
Rather than racing through content, we prioritise depth of understanding so that children develop secure and lasting mathematical knowledge.
Through our partnership with the East Midlands West Maths Hub, we continually develop our practice and engage with the latest research and professional development in mathematics education.
Mathematics in Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2
As children move through Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, mathematics learning is carefully sequenced to build upon prior knowledge and understanding.
Our curriculum is supported through high-quality resources, including Oak National Academy, helping ensure consistency, progression and access to ambitious mathematical learning for all pupils.
Mathematical thinking is central to every lesson. Children are encouraged to explore concepts, identify patterns, make conjectures and explain their reasoning through discussion and practical experiences.
Fluency, Reasoning and Problem Solving
We do not view fluency, reasoning and problem solving as separate aspects of mathematics. Instead, they work together to develop deeper mathematical understanding.
Children develop:
Fluency | By developing automaticity, accuracy and efficiency with number, enabling children to apply their mathematical knowledge flexibly and confidently across a range of contexts.
Reasoning | By making connections between mathematical concepts, identifying patterns, justifying thinking and communicating ideas using precise mathematical language.
Problem Solving | By applying mathematical knowledge flexibly to unfamiliar situations, selecting efficient strategies and evaluating solutions to overcome challenges.
Through every stage of learning, children are encouraged to think mathematically, communicate their ideas and learn from mistakes.
Keep Up, Not Catch Up
We believe that success belongs to everyone.
Teachers use assessment throughout lessons to identify misconceptions and provide support as quickly as possible. Through targeted intervention and timely support, children are helped to keep up with learning rather than falling behind and needing to catch up later.
This responsive approach helps ensure that all children can access ambitious mathematical learning and experience success.
Mathematical Thinking for Life
Mathematics is about far more than calculation.
We want children to leave Grampian as confident thinkers who can reason logically, solve problems and approach challenges with resilience and curiosity.
Through our curriculum, children learn to communicate their ideas, analyse information, identify patterns and make informed decisions. These skills support not only success in mathematics, but also in the wider curriculum, future education and everyday life.
Thinking Like a Mathematician
At Grampian, we want every child to see themselves as a mathematician. Through strong foundations, deep understanding and ambitious teaching, children learn to think critically, reason confidently and solve problems creatively. By developing mathematical knowledge alongside mathematical thinking, we prepare children to succeed in school, in the wider world and in unlocking their positive future.
