Mathematics

INTENT

At The Cathedral School of St Peter and St John, we believe that all children can succeed in mathematics. Our curriculum is designed to develop confident, fluent mathematicians who can reason, solve problems and communicate their thinking using precise mathematical language. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum based on White Rose Maths, the NCETM Ready to Progress Criteria and the NCETM Mastering Number Programme, pupils build secure conceptual understanding and strong number sense from the earliest years. We aim to foster curiosity, resilience and enjoyment in mathematics, ensuring that every child develops the knowledge and confidence needed to apply mathematics successfully in school and everyday life.

IMPLEMENTATION

Mathematics is taught through a mastery approach, with learning carefully sequenced in small steps to develop deep and secure understanding. Lessons follow the principles of Teaching for Mastery, providing opportunities for fluency, reasoning and problem solving within every unit of work.

Teachers use a Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract (CPA) approach to introduce and develop mathematical concepts, supported by a range of manipulatives and representations that help children make connections and understand mathematical structures. Mathematical vocabulary is explicitly taught and pupils are encouraged to explain, justify and discuss their thinking through structured mathematical talk.

The school follows the White Rose Maths schemes of learning and uses the NCETM Ready to Progress Criteria to ensure that key concepts are secured before pupils move on to new learning. Daily fluency practice, alongside the NCETM Mastering Number Programme from Reception to Year 5, supports the development of automaticity with key number facts and strengthens pupils' understanding of number.

Assessment is ongoing and responsive, incorporating teacher assessment, White Rose assessments and NCETM diagnostic assessments to identify misconceptions and inform next steps in teaching. Additional support and intervention are provided where needed to ensure all pupils can access the curriculum and achieve success.

All pupils from Year 2 to Year 6 have access to Times Tables Rock Stars to support the development of multiplication fluency through regular practice both at school and at home.

IMPACT

By the time pupils leave The Cathedral School of St Peter and St John, they are fluent, confident mathematicians who can reason, solve problems and apply their knowledge across a range of contexts. They are able to explain their thinking using mathematical language, demonstrate resilience when faced with challenge and have a secure foundation for the next stage of their education. Through a consistent mastery approach, pupils develop a deep understanding of mathematics and recognise its importance in everyday life.