Our Approach to Mathematics

We follow the White Rose Maths scheme and use the Mixed-Age Version (new 24/25) to support the delivery of our curriculum.

White Rose Maths is based upon a mastery approach, which encourages children to think deeply about mathematics and develop a secure understanding of concepts before moving on to new learning.

Through this approach, children are encouraged to:

• Develop fluency in key mathematical concepts.
• Reason mathematically.
• Solve increasingly complex problems.
• Explain and justify their thinking.
• Make connections between different areas of mathematics.
• Apply their learning in a range of contexts.

Further information about White Rose Maths can be found here.

A key principle of mastery is the use of multiple representations to support understanding.

Children move through three connected stages:

Concrete

Children first explore mathematical concepts using practical resources and equipment such as counters, cubes, place value charts, tens frames and bead strings.

Pictorial

Children then use pictures, diagrams and visual representations to help model and explain their understanding.

Abstract

Finally, children use numbers and mathematical symbols to represent their ideas and solve problems efficiently.

By moving between these representations, children develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and are able to explain their thinking with increasing confidence.

Mathematics in the Early Years

Mathematics begins long before children learn formal calculation methods.

In our Early Years Foundation Stage, including First Steps Nursery, children develop their mathematical understanding through a rich balance of adult-led and child-initiated learning opportunities.

Children are supported to develop:

• Number sense
• Counting skills
• Pattern recognition
• Subitising
• Mathematical language
• Problem solving
• Reasoning skills
• Spatial awareness
• Shape, space and measure

Daily opportunities are provided both indoors and outdoors for children to explore mathematics through play, investigation and discussion.

These experiences provide the strong foundations necessary for later mathematical success.

Calculation Methods

To ensure consistency across the school, we follow the White Rose Calculation Policy.

This document demonstrates the progression of calculation methods from Reception through to Year 6 and shows how children move from practical representations towards efficient written methods.

Useful White Rose Maths Resources

Ready-to-Progress Criteria These documents outline the key mathematical concepts children should secure before moving on to new learning.

Calculation Policy This policy demonstrates how the four operations are taught progressively across the school, moving from concrete resources to pictorial representations and finally abstract methods.

Single-Age Curriculum Links These documents show the National Curriculum content taught within each year group and how it aligns with our mixed-age planning structure.

Supporting Mathematics at Home

We believe that parents play a vital role in developing children's confidence and enjoyment in mathematics.

White Rose Maths provides a range of free resources for parents and carers, including videos, guidance and activities that closely match the methods and approaches used in school.

You can support your child by:

• Practising number facts regularly.
• Encouraging children to explain their mathematical thinking.
• Looking for mathematics in everyday life.
• Playing board games and number games.
• Talking positively about mathematics.
• Using the White Rose parent resources to reinforce learning taking place in school.

Regular short bursts of practice have a significant impact on mathematical fluency. We encourage children to regularly access NumBots and TTRS at home to reinforce the learning taking place in school.

Parents can access:

• NumBots
• Times Tables Rock Stars

using the login details provided by school.