Subject Lead - Mrs Oldham

We recognise that strong foundations in mathematics begin in the Early Years and are built through rich experiences, purposeful interactions and carefully sequenced learning that develops children's understanding over time.

Intent

At Boughton Leigh Infant School, we believe that all children can be successful mathematicians. Our mathematics curriculum is ambitious, carefully sequenced and designed to ensure that children develop secure mathematical foundations from the very start of their learning journey.

We follow the Maths Mastery approach, which enables children to develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts rather than simply learning procedures. Learning is carefully planned so that new knowledge builds on prior learning, helping children make connections and develop confidence over time.

In the Early Years, we recognise the importance of developing strong foundations in number, pattern, shape, measure and mathematical language. Through practical experiences, play-based learning and meaningful mathematical talk, children begin to develop the knowledge and skills that will support future success in mathematics.

Our aim is for all children to:

• Develop a positive attitude towards mathematics

• Become confident and resilient learners

• Build fluency in key mathematical concepts

• Use mathematical language accurately and confidently

• Reason, explain and justify their thinking

• Apply their knowledge to solve problems

• Recognise the importance of mathematics in everyday life

Implementation

Mathematics is taught through a mastery approach from Reception to Year 2, with key elements introduced within Nursery to support our youngest learners in developing early mathematical understanding through Maths Champions.

The curriculum is carefully sequenced to ensure that children develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and build secure knowledge over time. Learning is designed to help children make connections between different areas of mathematics, enabling them to apply their understanding confidently in a range of contexts.

In the Early Years, mathematical learning is woven throughout the day through:

• Adult-led teaching

• High-quality continuous provision

• Practical exploration and investigation

• Mathematical games and problem-solving activities

• Daily routines and discussions

• Songs, stories and rhymes

Children are encouraged to talk about mathematics, explain their thinking and use mathematical vocabulary in meaningful contexts. Staff model mathematical language and support children in developing the confidence to communicate their ideas clearly.

A key feature of our mathematics curriculum is the use of concrete resources, pictorial representations and mathematical discussion. Children explore concepts using practical equipment before moving towards more abstract understanding. This helps develop deep conceptual understanding and supports all learners to achieve success.

Maths Meetings

Maths Meetings form an important part of our mathematics curriculum from Nursery through to Year 2.

These short daily sessions provide opportunities to revisit and consolidate key mathematical knowledge and skills. Through engaging activities, songs, rhymes and discussion, children develop confidence with counting, number recognition, pattern, shape, time and other mathematical concepts.

Regular retrieval and practice help children retain knowledge and make links between new and previous learning.

Mathematical Language and Reasoning

We place great importance on developing children's mathematical language and communication skills.

Children are encouraged to explain their thinking, discuss mathematical ideas and justify their answers using appropriate vocabulary. Through high-quality questioning and discussion, staff support children to deepen their understanding and develop mathematical reasoning skills.

We believe that talking about mathematics helps children to think mathematically and strengthens their understanding of key concepts.

Inclusion and Challenge

At the heart of our mastery approach is the belief that all children can succeed in mathematics.

Children access the same ambitious curriculum, with support and challenge provided through carefully planned scaffolds, questioning and practical resources. Rather than moving quickly onto new content, children are encouraged to deepen their understanding through reasoning, exploration and problem-solving.

Impact

The impact of our mathematics curriculum is seen in children's confidence, enthusiasm and growing mathematical understanding.

Children develop secure mathematical foundations and become increasingly fluent in key concepts and skills. They are able to reason mathematically, explain their thinking and apply their knowledge to solve problems.

Our children:

• Enjoy mathematics and approach learning positively

• Demonstrate confidence and resilience when faced with challenge

• Use mathematical vocabulary accurately

• Make connections across different areas of mathematics

• Apply their learning in a range of contexts

• Develop secure foundations for future mathematical learning

Assessment is an ongoing part of teaching and learning. Teachers use observation, questioning, discussion and assessment tasks to monitor children's understanding and identify next steps.

Regular assessments and professional dialogue ensure that teaching is responsive to children's needs and that all pupils continue to make strong progress from their starting points.

By the time children leave Boughton Leigh Infant School, they have developed the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to continue their mathematical journey successfully.