Numeracy

We aim to ensure all children are encouraged to enjoy mathematics and become more enthusiastic mathematicians by developing their skills, knowledge and understanding through practical experiences, which have relevance and purpose in everyday situations. It is important that children develop the skills of Numeracy to become lifelong learners. They should be able to apply the skills in different situations across the curriculum and in daily living outside school. 

The aims of teaching mathematics are to: 

• promote enjoyment and enthusiasm for learning through practical activity, exploration and discussion; 
• develop a numerate environment where mathematical risk-taking, creativity and logical thought are encouraged in order to develop independent learners; 
• promote confidence and competence with numbers and the number system; 
• develop the ability to solve problems through decision making and reasoning in a range of contexts; 
• develop a practical understanding of the ways in which information is gathered, presented and interpreted; 
• explore features of shape and space and develop measuring skills in a range of contexts; 
• develop mathematical communication through speaking and listening, practical activities and recording work; 
• to understand the importance of mathematics in everyday life including aspects of Financial Literacy.

It is important that children are allowed to explore Maths and present their findings not only in written form but also visually and verbally; to that end the school adopts the CPA approach: concrete, pictorial, abstract within their daily teaching. Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract (CPA) is a highly effective approach to teaching that develops a sustainable understanding of maths. The CPA approach builds on children’s existing knowledge by introducing abstract concepts in a concrete and tangible way. It involves moving from concrete materials, to pictorial representations, to abstract symbols and problems. This will allow the children to experience the physical aspects of Maths before finding a way to present their findings and understandings in a visual form before relying on the abstract numbers.