Maths

At Richard de Clare we follow a Teaching for Mastery approach.  This means instead of learning mathematical procedures by rote, we want children to build a deep understanding of concepts which will enable pupils of all ages to acquire a deep, long-term, secure and adaptable understanding of the subject which they can apply in different situations.   

Our curriculum is based on the White Rose Maths scheme, which provides a clear progression from the Early Years through to Year 6. This ensures consistency and coherence across all year groups. 

We have high expectations for every child. We help them develop a growth mindset approach: the belief that every child is capable of developing their mathematical skills. Mathematical ideas are revisited and built upon each year, allowing pupils to tackle increasingly complex problems as they progress through the school. 

To help pupils grasp abstract ideas, teachers use manipulatives (such as counters, cubes, and place value charts) alongside visual models like bar models and number lines. These representations help children make connections and develop strong problem-solving skills. 

Mathematical Fluency

We understand that fluency and automaticity in maths is essential for helping pupils to become strong mathematicians.  

In Reception and KS1, we use the Mastering Number programme in addition to daily maths lessons to help build number sense and fluency in calculation, which gives them confidence and flexibility with number.  

In KS2, we have a particular focus on automatic recall of times tables. All KS2 pupils participate in our whole school intervention, Fast Maths. Pupils are highly motivated to beat their personal bests every day and have a chance to be celebrated as a ‘Fast Maths Achiever’ in celebration assembly.  

Supporting Maths at Home

• Talk to your child about their learning, what they learned in their maths lessons each day. 
• Play maths games: pairs, bingo, monopoly, snakes and ladders. 
• Discuss numbers all around you: door numbers, bus numbers etc. 
• Counting when out and about; objects they can see, chanting counting patterns 
• Cooking and shopping with your child, getting them to weigh ingredients, using language such as “more” and “less/fewer”. 

Key Stage 1 pupils have access to a Numbots account at home and KS2 children have their logins for Times table rockstars. These details can be found in their reading journal or by contacting their class teacher.