Maths
Intent
At Southwark Park Primary School, we believe that strong mathematical skills form a solid basis for developing children’s critical thinking. Alongside a strong practice of daily arithmetic and basic maths skills, we encourage children to use reasoning and logic to systematically and accurately solve problems. We employ a concrete, pictorial and abstract approach to deepen their understanding of maths, and create pathways into other topics. By adopting a hands-on approach to learning and discovery, every child is challenged, and motivated to excel.
Implementation
A diet of basic maths skills at Southwark Park includes a focus on place value, the four operations and fractions. Children are given the opportunity to choose from a variety of concrete manipulatives, in order to solve problems through a variety of approaches. By pushing a growth mindset in our maths lessons, mistakes are welcomed and in fact encouraged as a natural and necessary part of the learning process. Key mathematical terminology is embedded, giving children the confidence to justify their work and express their understanding. At Southwark Park, no child is left behind which is why a strong focus on assessment identifies and closes gaps in learning. Consolidation lessons ensure that children remain on track to maximising their potential.
Impact
All lessons in Key Stage 1 and 2 follow the National Curriculum objectives for mathematics. In Early Years, children work towards the mathematics objectives outlined in the Birth to Five Framework. Teachers use this as the basis for their lessons, aiming to build confidence and mastery. All lessons are taught using a variety of resources to support learning and mathematical concepts are represented in different ways, to ensure secure understanding. Through daily maths lessons children become confident mathematicians that are able to explain their learning and make links between mathematical topics. Regular formative and summative assessment takes place to ensure all children make good progress. Our ultimate aims are to create a constantly engaging environment, where children are engaged and enjoying their maths journey and to develop their mathematical thinking to prepare them for the wider world and future careers.
Addition Written calculation policy
Division Written calculation policy
