“Without mathematics, there's nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers.” - Shakuntala Devi
At Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, it is our intention to create confident, resilient mathematicians who develop a love of mathematics and an appreciation of its importance in everyday life and future learning. Our mathematics curriculum is designed to embed the school values, encouraging pupils to persevere, collaborate respectfully and strive for accuracy and depth in their mathematical thinking.
We recognise mathematics as a vital tool for understanding the world, supporting learning in science, technology, engineering and financial literacy. Our aim is to provide a high-quality mathematical education that equips pupils with secure number knowledge, strong reasoning skills and the ability to solve problems with confidence and independence. We intend for pupils to develop curiosity and enjoyment in mathematics, alongside a deep conceptual understanding of key mathematical concepts.
Our mathematics curriculum is implemented in line with the National Curriculum and follows the HIAS Maths Scheme of Learning, which is carefully sequenced to ensure clear progression and to enable pupils to build securely on prior knowledge. KS1 also access the Maths Mastery programme.
Curriculum Structure and Progression
- Core mathematical concepts, particularly number, calculation and arithmetic, are revisited and interlinked across year groups to deepen understanding and support long-term retention.
- In EYFS, pupils develop strong foundational number knowledge through practical, play-based learning.
- In KS1, pupils access a Maths Mastery approach, building on EYFS foundations to develop secure number sense, fluency and confidence with mathematical language.
- Lessons emphasise conceptual understanding, reasoning and problem solving, supported by concrete, pictorial and abstract representations.
- High-quality questioning and discussion enable pupils to explain their thinking, justify answers and learn from mistakes.
- Inclusive teaching ensures all pupils, including those with SEND, can access learning and achieve success through appropriate scaffolding and challenge.
- In Years 3 and 4, daily timetable structures prioritise the teaching and rehearsal of multiplication tables, strengthening recall and automaticity.
- In Years 5 and 6, daily arithmetic sessions focus on consolidating key skills and methods, ensuring pupils develop accuracy, efficiency and confidence in calculation.
The impact of mathematics at Holy Cross is strongest in the secure and well-developed foundations established in EYFS, where pupils leave with a confident understanding of number, early calculation and mathematical language. This strong start enables pupils to approach mathematics positively and with increasing fluency as they move through the school.
As pupils progress through Key Stage 1 and into Key Stage 2, they develop growing confidence in recalling number facts, applying arithmetic strategies and explaining their mathematical thinking using appropriate vocabulary. Pupils are increasingly able to reason, solve problems and select suitable methods, demonstrating resilience and curiosity when tackling mathematical challenges.
Focused approaches, including mastery teaching in KS1, strengthened timetable structures for multiplication tables in Years 3 and 4, and daily arithmetic practice in Years 5 and 6, are having a positive impact on pupils’ fluency, confidence and independence.