All pupils study numeracy for a minimum of four hours a week, with some children receiving an additional hour (either in small groups or whole class) as needed. Children are taught in ability sets to ensure each child feels suitably challenged each lesson. The groupings are reviewed regularly and children can move from one ability group to another if we feel this is appropriate. In addition to on-going teacher assessment throughout the year and marking of homework, Optional and Statutory tests are used termly in each year group to monitor progress and to set individual pupil targets. Each lesson in maths begins with a quick starter activity to keep mental skills sharp whilst having fun. Children in key stage 2 follow the QCA primary curriculum, preparing them with the necessary number skills and understanding of shape and data . We aim to make maths enjoyable and accessible for all, whilst preparing our children with a solid grasp and understanding of number.
In Key stage 3, we build on these embedded skills and continue to teach maths following the QCA guidelines. Functional maths activities help children to see the relevance of maths in the real world and are used regularly within topics so that children will know how they can apply the skills they are learning outside the classroom. Homework is set in maths to practise skills and to further develop learning. In addition, parents should support their child by regularly practising tables and related division facts. Mental arithmetic tests are also used as homework to practise mental agility.
ICT is used in maths to support and enhance the learning inside and outside the classroom. Children have access to websites to support their maths and have their own individual log in and password details.
Mathletics (www.mathletics.co.uk) encourages speed and accuracy in mental calculations and children can compete against their friends or against anyone from around the world! There are also opportunities for children to complete assigned tasks in mathletics on an individual basis. These tasks may be finding fractions of amounts or finding areas of shapes for example, and the teacher will set the work related to the class topic.
MyMaths (www.mymaths.co.uk) is a set of online maths homework and support activities that children may be assigned or that they can access any time they wish. There are support activities that children can use if they find a topic difficult in class and wish to practise further outside the classroom.
SAM Learning (www.samlearning.com) is used in all subject areas as well as maths and homework and practice tasks can be used to support classwork.