Maths
At Bacton Primary School, our mathematics curriculum develops children's fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills alongside a secure understanding of number and the wider mathematical curriculum. We want all children to become confident, resilient and successful mathematicians who approach learning with curiosity and perseverance.
Mathematical fluency enables children to reason, make connections, identify patterns, explain their thinking and solve increasingly complex problems. We believe mathematics is an essential life skill and provides the foundations for success across the curriculum, as well as in science, technology, engineering and everyday life.
Our curriculum is carefully sequenced using White Rose Maths to ensure progression of knowledge and skills from EYFS to Year 6. Continuous formative and summative assessment enables teachers to adapt learning to meet the needs of each cohort, consolidating key concepts where needed and providing opportunities for deeper learning. Where classes contain mixed year groups, planning is carefully structured to ensure pupils build on prior knowledge and make sustained progress over time.
Mathematical talk is an important part of our curriculum. Children are encouraged to explain, justify and prove their thinking using accurate mathematical vocabulary, helping them develop confidence and a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts.
Secure multiplication knowledge is one of the building blocks of success in mathematics. Short, regular practice on Times Tables Rock Stars helps children develop quick and accurate recall of multiplication and division facts.
When children can recall these facts automatically, they have more mental space to focus on new learning, reasoning and problem solving, rather than using all their thinking power to work out basic calculations. Just 5–10 minutes of practice each day can make a significant difference to confidence, fluency and success across many areas of mathematics.
Useful links
https://whiteroseeducation.com/parent-pupil-resources/maths/maths-with-michael
We know that the way maths is taught today can sometimes feel different from when many parents were at school. It can be difficult to keep up with new methods, vocabulary and approaches, particularly when you're trying to help with homework or support learning at home.
Maths with Michael is a series of short videos and helpful guides designed for parents and carers. They explain the methods children are taught in school and provide practical ideas for supporting mathematical learning at home.
Whether you're revisiting place value, fractions or multiplication, these resources can help you feel more confident in supporting your child and understanding how maths is taught in the classroom.