Maths
I enjoy Maths especially when you are given the answer but you have to work out what the question was to start off with - Year 5 Pupil
Curriculum Intent
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We are dedicated to enabling children to recognise the importance of mathematics in the wider world, so that they can use their mathematical skills and knowledge confidently in a range of real-life situations.
We want all children to aspire to become lifelong learners of mathematics and to develop a deep and secure conceptual understanding of the subject through a mastery approach. Staff create opportunities for pupils to grow as independent learners, while developing the ability to think logically, reason effectively and solve problems systematically and accurately.
We have high expectations for every learner. Our aim is for pupils to truly master mathematics, rather than simply recalling methods without understanding. A concept is fully mastered when a child can represent it in multiple ways through exploration, practice and application.
At the core of our curriculum is the concrete, pictorial and abstract approach to mathematics:
Concrete | Children use physical objects to support their understanding and explain their thinking.
Pictorial | They then build on this by using visual representations to deepen understanding, reason and solve problems.
Abstract | With these foundations in place, children move on to using numbers and key concepts with increasing confidence and independence.
Curriculum Implementation
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Mathematics at Elmhurst is guided by the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework, the 2014 National Curriculum, the Mastering Number Project, and the Teaching for Mastery approach. From Reception to Year 6, maths is taught coherently and sequentially using both the ‘Mastering Number’ approach and the DfE-accredited ‘Power Maths’ scheme to structure lessons and support mastery. Units of learning are broken down into a series of small, connected steps, each building on children’s prior knowledge, with lessons typically focusing on one or a small sequence of these steps. Throughout this sequence, there is a strong emphasis on building secure foundational knowledge, including number formation and early calculation strategies, while identifying and addressing misconceptions promptly so that all pupils can progress with confidence.
Elmhurst also participates in the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) ‘Mastering Number’ project, which supports the teaching of core mathematical skills and aims to secure firm foundations in number sense for children from Reception through to Year 2. In Reception, daily maths lessons follow the Mastering Number approach for approximately five weeks of each half term, with remaining sessions used to address gaps in understanding and develop learning in shape, space and measure. In Key Stage 1, each class has a daily ‘Mastering Number’ session in addition to their main maths lesson.
Across the school, learning is supported through a concrete, pictorial and abstract approach, enabling pupils to develop a secure conceptual understanding using a range of manipulatives and representations, while misconceptions are continually identified and addressed through questioning, practice and discussion. Alongside daily maths lessons in Year 2 and Key Stage 2, additional time is given to arithmetic and multiplication tables to build fluency, accuracy and the ability to think about numbers in different ways.
If you would like further information on our Maths curriculum or how to help your child at home, please get in contact with our Maths Leader, Mrs Dawn Hanwell, on 01296 481380 or office@esglt.co.uk
Times Tables
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Times tables are a key focus at Elmhurst, as they provide a vital foundation for success across all areas of mathematics. We use a structured approach that combines the Ashley Down scheme with engaging online platforms such as Times Table Rock Stars (TTRS) and Numbots. In Lower Key Stage 2, the Ashley Down approach is used daily to support the rapid recall of multiplication and division facts, ensuring that children build speed, accuracy and confidence through short, consistent practice. Where needed, this approach continues into Year 5 to further strengthen fluency and secure key knowledge. Alongside this, times tables are taught explicitly through the use of multiplication arrays as well as carefully structured rote learning, enabling children to develop both conceptual understanding and quick recall.
TTRS and Numbots provide additional motivating opportunities to practise at home and in school; when used little and often, they significantly improve recall and understanding. Numbots develops fluency with number bonds and addition and subtraction facts, while TTRS focuses on securing quick recall of multiplication facts up to 12 × 12. Together, these approaches enable pupils to strengthen their understanding, improve accuracy and apply their knowledge more effectively across the wider maths curriculum.
We are proud to have achieved results in line with National Expectations over the past 3 academic years. Further information can be found in Key Information | Performance Information and Ofsted Reports.