Maths

At Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, our vision is to create confident mathematicians, and to encourage a love of mathematics within pupils.  We believe mathematics is a critical aid to science, technology, engineering, financial literacy and for most, future endeavours. As a school, our aim is to provide a high-quality mathematical education, which will prepare pupils with an understanding of reasoning and problem solving, an appreciation of the power of mathematics, as well as admiration and curiosity about the subject. We aim to:

• Develop deep conceptual understanding and fluency in mathematical concepts through a carefully sequenced and well-structured curriculum that aligns with the National Curriculum.
• Ensure every pupil, regardless of their starting point or background, has access to high-quality teaching and appropriate resources to foster their confidence and competence in maths.
• Encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling pupils to apply their mathematical knowledge to real-world contexts and everyday situations.
• Build a strong foundation for future mathematical learning by nurturing an innate curiosity and an appreciation for the beauty and relevance of mathematics in the world around them.

Implementation

To deliver our intent, our mathematics curriculum encompasses the following key areas:

Curriculum Design

• Progressive Structure: Our maths curriculum follows the Maths HIAS Scheme of Learning, and is carefully sequenced to enable our pupils to build on prior knowledge, and progressively increase mathematical understanding. Core concepts such as number facts and arithmetic are revisited and interlinked throughout the year groups.

• Mastery Approach: We employ a mastery approach to mathematics, endeavouring to ensure that all of our pupils grasp the underlying concepts before moving on to more complex topics. Lessons are designed to promote a deep understanding through development of fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

• High-Quality Inclusive Teaching: We prioritise high-quality teaching through ongoing professional development for staff, pedagogical techniques, such as the use of concrete resources and visual aids, to enhance understanding.

• Variation and Inclusivity: Our teaching strategies include varied tasks that cater to the learning needs of our pupils. We also use additional support, such as targeted interventions.

• Assessment for Learning: We use regular formative assessments that inform our teaching, and provide immediate feedback to pupils. Summative assessments are also used to track progress and identify areas for improvement.

Impact

The impact of our carefully sequenced maths curriculum is evident in several key areas:

• Engagement and Enthusiasm: Our pupils are enthusiastic about mathematics, demonstrating a willingness to take on challenges and explore concepts deeply. Their positive attitudes contribute to a vibrant learning environment where curiosity thrives.

• Skills for Future Learning: Our pupils leave primary school with a good mathematical foundation, equipping them with essential skills for secondary education and beyond. They exhibit strong problem-solving abilities and can critically engage with mathematical concepts in a variety of contexts.

• Lifelong Learners: Our focus on fostering a love for mathematics cultivates lifelong learners who appreciate the subject's value.