Numeracy and Mathematics

Our aim is the development of concepts, skills and knowledge in mathematics but we also intend to develop a positive attitude to this subject. The mathematics teaching in the school covers the following areas; investigation, number, algebra, handling data, shape and space. This starts with practical apparatus to help the development of concepts and this equipment is withdrawn as their skill level increases and the children are able to deal with abstract problems and extended study.

The Numeracy Strategy is fully in place. This involves a lot of work on, and teaching of, oral mental strategies. All year groups have implemented the three part Numeracy lesson which lasts up to one hour, depending upon the age of the pupil. The first part of the lesson is the whole class, oral/mental session, the children then move to group work which is in ability groups, ending with a short plenary, drawing on what the children have learned. In classes with younger children, mathematics is often taught as part of a topic, but as they move through the school discrete teaching becomes more predominant. In Years 2 to 6 we encourage work at home on a variety of tasks designed to develop mental skills, mathematical patterns, tables work and quick number recall. At Key Stage 2, our most able children are taking part in a pilot project offering extension work in a small group situation following the successful completion of a screening test.

The children are encouraged to become active learners in the field of measurement where the work includes weight, capacity, time, area, length, money, 2D and 3D shapes, volume and symmetry. A wider range of material is available including the use of ICT and maths software. The school does not follow one published scheme but work-cards and textbooks are often used to supplement the work. Teachers normally prepare materials to suit the abilities of the children in their class, with reference to the requirements of the National Curriculum and National Numeracy Strategy.