Mathematics
Maths
Intent
At Bryn Offa Primary School, we believe that mathematics is a vital part of every child’s education and development. Our intent is to foster a deep understanding and enjoyment of maths from the very beginning of a child’s journey in Reception, where children are introduced to early mathematical concepts through play, exploration, and practical activities. We aim to build strong foundations in number sense, shape, space, and measures, in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring that children develop confidence and curiosity in using maths in everyday contexts.
As children progress through Key Stages 1 and 2, our curriculum is carefully designed to follow the statutory requirements of the National Curriculum for mathematics. We strive to ensure that all pupils become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, reason mathematically, and solve problems by applying their understanding to a variety of contexts. Teachers model a logical and systematic approach to problem solving, helping children to develop strategies and resilience when tackling challenges. Reasoning discussions are used not only to deepen mathematical understanding but also to develop oracy skills, encouraging children to articulate their thinking clearly while exploring the most efficient methods.
Our overarching intent is to equip every child at Bryn Offa with the mathematical skills and resilience needed for life beyond primary school. We aim to nurture confident, independent learners who can approach mathematical challenges with enthusiasm and perseverance. By embedding maths across the curriculum and linking it to real-life situations, we help children see its relevance and importance, preparing them for future learning and everyday decision-making.
Implementation
At Bryn Offa Primary School, mathematics is implemented through a carefully structured and progressive approach that begins in Reception and continues through to Year 6. In Reception, children follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, where maths is taught through engaging, hands-on experiences that promote early number sense, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness. Teachers use a blend of child-led exploration and adult-guided activities to ensure children develop a secure understanding of mathematical concepts in a meaningful and enjoyable way.
Across Key Stages 1 and 2, we follow the White Rose Maths scheme, which aligns closely with the National Curriculum and provides a coherent, small-steps progression that supports mastery for all pupils. Our curriculum is sequentially planned to provide children with maximum opportunities not only to learn new skills but also to revisit prior topics and concepts. This approach allows pupils to master their understanding, creating a lasting and measurable change to their long-term memory. The challenging materials and assessments within the White Rose scheme ensure that every staff member has high expectations of their pupils. Children are encouraged to persevere and believe that with effort, they can understand each new concept. Resources from the scheme are supplemented by concrete materials and expert teacher knowledge to support and extend learning.
Any potential gaps in learning are identified and addressed through live marking and targeted practice. Whole-class misconceptions are revisited during daily maths starters, where basic skills are reinforced and children are given regular opportunities to master tricky mathematical techniques. Reasoning and discussion are embedded into lessons to deepen understanding and develop oracy skills, while encouraging pupils to explore efficient strategies. Times tables fluency and secure arithmetic knowledge are recognised as essential foundations for mathematical success. TT Rockstars is used across KS1 & 2 and actively promoted by staff to support multiplication mastery in a fun and engaging way, fostering healthy competition and motivation. The importance of becoming fluent in multiplication tables is highlighted at every appropriate opportunity within topic areas, ensuring children are well-equipped for future mathematical learning.
Impact
At Bryn Offa Primary School, the impact of our maths curriculum is evident in the confidence, fluency, and resilience our pupils demonstrate when approaching mathematical tasks. Children develop a secure understanding of key concepts through a mastery approach that allows them to build on prior learning and apply their knowledge in a range of contexts. Regular opportunities to revisit and consolidate learning ensure that pupils retain mathematical knowledge in their long-term memory, enabling them to make connections and solve problems with increasing independence.
Pupil progress is monitored closely through formative and summative assessments, live marking, and targeted interventions. Any potential gaps in learning are identified and closed through live marking, and whole-class misconceptions are addressed during daily maths starters, where basic skills are revisited and refined. Here, children encounter questions that have previously caused confusion and benefit from regular recaps to master tricky mathematical techniques. The use of TT Rockstars across Classes 2 to 5 supports multiplication fluency and encourages engagement through fun and competition. The importance of becoming fluent in multiplication tables is highlighted at every appropriate opportunity within topic areas, helping children build a strong foundation in arithmetic.
Our pupils understand the value of perseverance and effort in mastering new mathematical ideas. They are encouraged to articulate their thinking, explore efficient strategies, and approach problems with a logical mindset. The high expectations set by staff, supported by the challenging materials and assessments within the White Rose Maths scheme, ensure that all children—regardless of starting point—make sustained progress and develop a positive attitude towards mathematics. Pupil voice, along with assessment outcomes, shows that our children are methodical, accurate, and confident mathematicians who see the value and benefit of mathematics in everyday life.
Useful Websites
Here are some useful websites for you to support your child's maths learning at home:
- White Rose Maths Parent Resources: Free workbooks, videos, and guidance aligned with the curriculum used at Bryn Offa https://whiteroseeducation.com/parent-pupil-resources/maths
- TT Rockstars: Used in Years 1-6 to help children master multiplication tables through fun and healthy competition. Children are provided with log in details by their class teacher https://ttrockstars.com
- Topmarks – Hit the Button: Fast-paced games to practise number bonds, times tables, doubling, halving, and more https://www.topmarks.co.uk/maths-games/hit-the-button
- BBC Bitesize – KS1 & KS2 Maths: Interactive lessons, videos, and quizzes covering all areas of the National Curriculum https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zjxhfg8https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/z826n39
- MathsFrame: Over 200 interactive maths games and tools, including resources for the Year 4 multiplication check https://mathsframe.co.uk
- NRICH Maths: Rich problem-solving tasks and challenges designed to stretch mathematical thinking for all ages https://nrich.maths.org/parents
