Mathematics

At Wheatfields Primary, we aim for all pupils to achieve fluency in mathematical fundamentals through varied and frequent practice, reason mathematically by exploring inquiries and developing arguments and solve problems with increasing sophistication, breaking them down into simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions. This is achieved through building pupils’ prior knowledge year on year, which provides greater coherence and depth of subject knowledge.

We achieve our aim through the five big ideas of ‘Teaching for Mastery’. Mastering maths means pupils of all ages acquiring a deep, long-term, secure and adaptable understanding of the subject. The phrase ‘teaching for mastery’ describes the elements of classroom practice and school organisation that combine to give pupils the best chances of mastering maths. Achieving mastery means acquiring a solid enough understanding of the maths that’s been taught to enable pupils to move on to more advanced material (NCETM).  Through ‘fluency’, teachers aim to build firm foundations of key mathematical facts that pupils can apply efficiently.  The use of Representation and Structures provide pupils the ability to see the mathematical structures, access ideas, communicate concepts and make connections. During lessons, mathematical thinking is explored through chains of reasoning, applying maths to problems and again making connections in the wider context.  Deepening pupils' fluency knowledge through variation - procedural and conceptual, especially in KS2 pupils. ‘Maths and Greater depth is a right for ALL children.’ - Liz Lambert (ASSISTANT DIRECTOR FOR PRIMARY at NCETM). At Wheatfields Primary, growth mind set is used to feel happy and positive about Maths.