Maths
Our Vision
“We learn maths to solve problems, understand numbers, and make sense of the world around us.”
At Kirk Smeaton, we are passionate about enabling every child to become a confident, capable mathematician. Over the past two years, we have transformed our approach to ensure that all learners can access and enjoy mathematics.
We work closely with the Leger schools through regular Maths Coordinator meetings to share strategies and continually enhance teaching and learning.
Supporting Learning at Home
We ask parents to support their child’s times tables practice daily. Simple activities such as asking questions in different orders or writing them down on paper are highly effective and cost-free. We also subscribe to Times Tables Rock Stars-a fantastic resource that helps pupils improve recall through fun, interactive games. Please make full use of this at home.
We send maths homework linked to classroom learning to reinforce taught skills. This practice helps pupils consolidate their understanding, develop fluency, and build confidence in applying a range of strategies.
Intent
At Kirk Smeaton C of E School, our intent is to provide an inspiring, number-rich environment where all pupils can thrive. We aim to deliver a curriculum that meets the needs of every learner and equips them with the mathematical skills needed for future success. Our approach reflects our school vision: enabling all children-regardless of background or ability-to flourish and develop a positive, “can-do” attitude towards maths.
From the earliest stages, pupils build strong foundations in number sense through high-quality teaching and practical experiences. We use concrete, pictorial, and abstract representations to support understanding and prepare children for progression throughout learning.
By the end of each year group, pupils will be fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, able to reason mathematically and solve problems in a range of contexts. We believe all children can achieve in mathematics and teach for depth and mastery, using misconceptions as learning opportunities and providing challenge through rich, sophisticated problems.
Implementation
- Curriculum: We teach the National Curriculum supported by White Rose Maths mixed-age planning and NCETM guidance. Lessons are sequenced to build knowledge year by year and include daily arithmetic and reasoning practice.
- EYFS: Early mathematical development is supported through play-based learning and structured activities, following White Rose and Mastering Number.
- KS1 & KS2: Daily lessons include recaps, fluency practice, reasoning, and problem-solving. Investigations are taught half-termly to develop pattern recognition and collaborative skills.
- Times Tables: Weekly focus and assessments from Year 1 to Year 4, supported by Times Tables Rock Stars.
- Homework: Provided weekly based on classroom learning.
- Assessment: Termly assessments track progress across all year groups, including statutory checks (Year 4 MTC, Year 6 SATs). EYFS pupils are assessed against Early Learning Goals.
Impact
By the time pupils leave Kirk Smeaton, they will:
- Be fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics with secure conceptual understanding.
- Apply knowledge accurately and confidently to solve problems in familiar and unfamiliar contexts.
- Reason mathematically, justify solutions, and use precise mathematical language.
- Enjoy mathematics and carry this confidence into future education and life.
Monitoring is carried out by the Headteacher, Maths Coordinator (Mrs Cuddy), and class teachers through lesson observations, book scrutiny, pupil voice, and data analysis. Progress is reviewed termly, and interventions are implemented where needed to ensure every child succeeds.