Mathematics
At Graven Hill Primary and Preschool, we believe that a high‑quality mathematics education equips children with the knowledge, confidence and skills they need to make sense of the world around them. Mathematics develops logical thinking, problem‑solving and resilience, and plays a vital role in everyday life, both in school and beyond.
Our mathematics curriculum is designed to ensure that all pupils develop a deep, secure and lasting understanding of key mathematical concepts. We follow the principles of the National Curriculum, which emphasise mastery, depth of understanding and progression at an appropriate pace for all learners.
Our Mathematics Curriculum
The core of our mathematics curriculum is built around fluency, reasoning and problem solving. Children are taught that mathematics is not just about finding answers, but about understanding why methods work and how ideas are connected.
We believe that the majority of pupils should move through the curriculum at broadly the same pace. Progression is based on the security of understanding, not acceleration. Children who grasp concepts quickly are challenged through rich, sophisticated problems that deepen and extend their thinking, while those who need more time are supported to consolidate their understanding before moving on.
This approach ensures that learning is meaningful, sustainable and built to last.
Fluency, Reasoning and Problem Solving
Within our mathematics teaching, each area of learning is explored through three key strands:
Fluency
Children develop confidence and accuracy through varied and regular practice. This helps them to build conceptual understanding and recall facts, methods and strategies efficiently and accurately.
Reasoning
Pupils are encouraged to explain their thinking, identify patterns, make connections and justify their ideas using precise mathematical language. Mathematical talk is a key feature of lessons, supporting children to articulate and refine their understanding.
Problem Solving
Children apply their knowledge to a range of routine and non‑routine problems. They learn to break problems down into manageable steps, choose appropriate strategies and persevere when challenges arise.
Together, these strands ensure that children develop both competence and confidence as mathematicians.
Teaching for Mastery
Our approach to mathematics is rooted in teaching for mastery. Key concepts are explored in depth, using carefully chosen representations and structures to help children make sense of abstract ideas.
We use a range of high‑quality, age‑appropriate resources to ensure consistency and progression across the school. These include materials aligned with the National Curriculum and mastery‑based schemes, which support teachers in planning learning that builds understanding step by step.
Learning is revisited and reinforced regularly, enabling children to make connections over time and apply their knowledge flexibly.
Developing Confident and Reflective Mathematicians
Mathematics lessons at Graven Hill encourage children to work both independently and collaboratively. Pupils are supported to take risks, learn from mistakes and develop a positive attitude towards challenge.
Through discussion, exploration and practice, children build resilience and confidence, developing the skills they need to apply mathematics in real‑life contexts and across the wider curriculum.
Preparing Children for the Future
Our mathematics curriculum ensures that children leave Graven Hill with:
- Secure understanding of key mathematical concepts
- Fluency in number and calculation
- The ability to reason clearly and explain their thinking
- Confidence in solving problems and tackling challenges
- A positive attitude towards mathematics and learning
By prioritising depth, understanding and enjoyment, our mathematics curriculum prepares children not only for the next stage of their education, but for a lifetime of mathematical thinking.