Our Mathematics Curriculum

At Medstead CE Primary School, we aim to inspire a love of mathematics and develop confident, resilient learners who see themselves as mathematicians. We believe that every child can succeed in maths through high-quality teaching, rich mathematical discussion and opportunities to explore concepts in depth.

From Year R to Year 6, our mathematics curriculum is designed to provide children with a secure understanding of mathematical concepts, enabling them to become fluent, reason mathematically and solve problems with confidence. We want our pupils to recognise the importance of mathematics in everyday life and to leave Medstead equipped with the skills they need for the next stage of their education and beyond.

Our mathematics curriculum is based on the aims of the National Curriculum for Mathematics, which seeks to ensure that all pupils:

• Become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics.
• Reason mathematically using precise mathematical language.
• Solve problems by applying their knowledge to a wide range of situations. 

We want our pupils to:

• Develop a deep and secure understanding of mathematical concepts.
• Recall and apply key number facts efficiently and accurately.
• Explain and justify their thinking using mathematical vocabulary.
• Approach challenges with confidence, resilience and curiosity.
• Make connections between different areas of mathematics.
• Apply their mathematical skills to real-life situations. 

How We Teach Mathematics

In Early Years (Year R), we follow the White Rose Maths reception schemes of learning. Mathematics is taught through a combination of adult-led learning, practical experiences, exploration and play. Children develop a strong understanding of number, pattern, shape, space and measure through carefully planned activities and meaningful learning opportunities both indoors and outdoors. 

In Key Stages 1 and 2, we follow the National Curriculum and use the Hampshire Schemes of Learning to support our planning and teaching. The Hampshire approach enables children to revisit and deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts throughout the year, helping them build secure foundations and make meaningful connections across different areas of maths. 

Our lessons provide opportunities for children to:

• Develop fluency in key skills and number facts.
• Explore mathematical concepts using practical resources.
• Represent their thinking through concrete, pictorial and abstract methods.
• Engage in reasoning and discussion.
• Tackle challenging problem-solving tasks.
• Apply mathematics in real-life contexts.
• Work collaboratively and independently.

The CPA Approach

At Medstead, we use a Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract (CPA) approach to learning.

Children are supported in developing conceptual understanding by using:

• Concrete resources such as counters, place value equipment, bead strings and tens frames.
• Pictorial representations including bar models, number lines and diagrams.
• Abstract methods using mathematical symbols and written calculations.

This progression helps children build understanding, confidence and independence in mathematics. 

Fluency, Reasoning and Problem Solving

Our curriculum balances the three key elements of mathematics:

• Fluency - Children develop secure knowledge of number facts and efficient calculation strategies through regular practice and retrieval.
• Reasoning - Pupils explain their thinking, justify their methods and make mathematical connections using accurate vocabulary.
• Problem Solving - Children apply their knowledge to investigate, explore and solve a range of mathematical problems, including those rooted in real-life contexts.

Times Tables and Number Facts

The rapid recall of number facts is essential for mathematical success. Throughout the school, children develop secure understanding of number bonds, place value and multiplication and division facts. By the end of Year 4, pupils are expected to know all multiplication facts up to 12 × 12 and complete the statutory Multiplication Tables Check. We support the development of these skills through regular practice and engaging activities, including the use of Times Tables Rock Stars and Mathletics. 

Mathematical Language

We place great importance on mathematical talk. Children are encouraged to explain, justify and discuss their thinking using precise mathematical vocabulary. Through questioning, discussion and collaborative learning, pupils develop confidence in communicating and reasoning mathematically.

Curriculum Impact

By the time children leave Medstead CE Primary School, we want them to be:

• Fluent and confident mathematicians.
• Curious and resilient problem solvers.
• Able to reason and communicate mathematically.
• Equipped with secure number sense and calculation skills.
• Prepared for the challenges of secondary mathematics and everyday life. 

For further information about our mathematics curriculum, please refer to the National Curriculum for Mathematics and the Hampshire Schemes for Learning, which underpin our teaching and progression across the school.

Assessment in Mathematics

Assessment is an integral part of our mathematics curriculum and helps us to ensure that every child makes strong progress from their individual starting points. Teachers use a range of formative assessment strategies during lessons, including questioning, discussion, observations and feedback, to identify understanding, address misconceptions and adapt teaching to meet pupils' needs. Children are also assessed regularly against year group expectations to monitor progress and inform future learning. This enables us to provide appropriate support and challenge so that all pupils can achieve success in mathematics.

Statutory Assessment

There are three key statutory assessments in mathematics during a child's primary school journey:

Early Years Foundation Stage Profile (EYFSP)

In the Summer Term of Year R, teachers complete the Early Years Foundation Stage Profile. This assessment is based on ongoing teacher observations and evidence gathered throughout the year.

There are two Early Learning Goals linked to mathematics:

• Number
• Numerical Patterns

These assessments help to identify how securely children have developed the mathematical skills and understanding expected at the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

In June of Year 4, all pupils complete the statutory Multiplication Tables Check.

The check consists of:

• 25 multiplication questions
• An online format
• A maximum of 5 minutes to complete

Fluency in multiplication facts is essential for success in this assessment and forms a key component of mathematical understanding. Throughout Key Stage 2, children regularly practise their multiplication and division facts, supported by resources such as Times Tables Rock Stars, to develop rapid recall and confidence.

Key Stage 2 SATs

In May of Year 6, pupils complete the End of Key Stage 2 Statutory Assessment Tests (SATs).

The mathematics assessment consists of three papers:

• Paper 1: Arithmetic
  • 30 minutes
  • 36 questions
  • 40 marks
• Paper 2: Reasoning
  • 40 minutes
  • 35 marks
• Paper 3: Reasoning
  • 40 minutes
  • 35 marks

The arithmetic paper assesses children's accuracy and fluency with calculation methods, while the reasoning papers assess their ability to apply mathematical knowledge, solve problems and explain their thinking. Children's raw scores are combined and converted into a standardised score between 80 and 120:

• A score of 100 indicates that a child has met the expected standard for the end of Key Stage 2.
• A score of 110 or above indicates a high level of attainment and that the child is working at greater depth within the expected standard.

The tests are externally marked, and results are shared with parents before the end of the academic year.

Working in Partnership with Parents

We value the important role parents and carers play in supporting children's mathematical development. Through home learning opportunities, Mathletics, Times Tables Rock Stars, parent workshops and curriculum information, we work together to help children develop confidence, fluency and a positive attitude towards mathematics.