Intent
We want our pupils to learn, think and speak like mathematicians. Our Mathematics curriculum allows children to make more sense of the world around them, including the links between Mathematics and everyday life. We teach a rich, balanced and progressive curriculum using Maths to reason, problem solve and develop fluent conceptual understanding in each area. We intend for all pupils to become fluent in the fundamentals of Mathematics. We intend for all pupils to solve problems by applying their Mathematics to a variety of problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions. We also intend for all pupils to be able to reason mathematically using mathematical language which comes from our vocabulary-rich environment.
Implementation
At Kielder, we use the White Rose scheme to support us in our teaching and learning, alongside the Haydon Bridge Partnership Calculation Policy for Mathematics 2017. Due to the size of the school, there is also plenty of flexibility, meaning that children can be placed in the class that suits their ability the best. There is a great emphasis on using a variety of methods and a wide range of physical resources to solve problems and on using fluency, reasoning and problem solving. In all classrooms, the lessons are made as practical as possible as this is important for the children's learning and understanding. Lessons use a concrete, pictorial and abstract approach to guide children through their understanding of mathematical processes. Where possible, links are made with other subjects across the curriculum to build a strong cross-curricular curriculum.
Children are given the opportunity to reason and solve problems regularly, as well as regular opportunities to explain the process they have used. Children are given opportunities to work both collaboratively and independently when solving problems which require them to preserve and develop resilience. All children have access to DoodleMaths, both in school and at home; this IT-based approach aims to enthuse and inspire our budding mathematicians. We continuously monitor pupils’ progress against the expected attainment for their age. In both Class 1 and 2, children are assessed termly using PUMA/NFER tests. KS1 and KS2 SATs are also administered as children reach the end of Year 2 and Year 6. When planning for each individual child, reference is made to the Department for Education’s ready-to-progress criteria.
Impact
At Kielder, you will see children who:
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are developing their Maths fluency
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can confidently talk about Maths and what they are learning
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are using a range of Maths resources to support their learning
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are able to explain their thinking and make links between different mathematical concepts
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aren’t afraid to make mistakes and know that they can learn from them
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understand the context in which Maths is being taught and relate this to real-life purposes
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can represent mathematical concepts in different ways
By the time children leave our school, we aim to ensure that they are equipped with the confidence, resilience, skills and problem-solving methods they need to succeed in the wider world. At Kielder, we recognise that Mathematics is an essential part of everyday life and we want all children to have a good understanding of Mathematics and to enjoy the challenges and rewards of it.