Maths

At HFNIS, we use a mastery-based approach to learning Mathematics as children’s chances of success are maximised if they develop a deep and lasting understanding of mathematical procedures and concepts.  We believe that children need to become fluent with number and develop an automaticity that allows them to progress on to more complex problems over time.  They need to be able to reason mathematically, both orally and on paper, using generalisations and justifications to explain their thinking as well as solve problems that require them to break down problems into the small steps required to reach a solution. 

Our teachers from nursery to Year two follow a rigorous small step programme for maths ensuring there is access to concrete resources, pictorial representation and children learn to work with more abstract mathematics. Children learn about all areas of mathematics including measurement and geometry to ensure they have the skills to participate fully in life in modern Britain.

We believe that all children should have:

• A deep understanding of maths and number.
• A positive and resilient attitude towards mathematics and an awareness of the fascination of mathematics.
• Competence and confidence in mathematical knowledge, concepts and skills.
• An ability to solve problems, to reason, to think logically and to work systematically and accurately.
• A range of learning strategies: working both collaboratively and independently.
• Fluency in mathematics where children can express ideas confidently and talk about the subject using mathematical language.
• An understanding of the importance of mathematics in everyday life.
• Independent learners who take responsibility for their own learning.

Our maths curriculum aims to ensure that all pupils:

• become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics through placing number at the heart of our curriculum with daily practice to ensure fluency of number facts
• reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry through ensuring discussion plays a vital role in all lessons. Children are actively encouraged to discuss with peers and teachers, how? Why?  using mathematical language
• can solve problems by ensuring problem solving is embedded in every lesson and variation of questions are used to enable children to apply their knowledge to different situations.
• develop rich connections across mathematical ideas to develop fluency are encouraged through variation of questions which can be seen in every lesson and evidenced in the maths folders.
• challenge is built into every lesson for pupils who grasp concepts rapidly through sophisticated problems and an opportunity for children to demonstrate their understanding creating their own problems.
• same day intervention is provided for children who are not sufficiently fluent with earlier material to consolidate their understanding.