Mathematics

At St. Mary's, our approach to mathematics teaching is one which leads children to feel confident and successful.  By placing a heavy emphasis on the understanding of concepts and by covering a wide variety of mathematical topics at a young age we ensure that there are opportunities for everyone to experience this success.  Numeracy is obviously of paramount importance in laying a firm foundation, but success in this area comes from exploring a broad spectrum of mathematical ideas thus allowing each child to develop understanding in their own way.  

Throughout the school, every topic is approached in a practical way.  Apparatus is used, models are made, diagrams are drawn so that the children can build up a visual and physical understanding of each new concept.  Ideas are discussed and procedures verbalised so that, through this multi-sensory approach, children gradually build up mental pictures for themselves and eventually develop the ability to abstract mathematical ideas.   

In the early years three areas are developed simultaneously to ensure variety.  One area is the basic recognition, understanding and manipulation of small numbers.  This is developed alongside the concept of tens and units, which involves the understanding of place value and larger numbers.  Thirdly a topic such as graphs and statistics, sets, shape, time, area or length is studied to give the children a broader mathematical understanding and to ensure that all children experience success.

From year 2, classes are taught by specialists.  We have our own extensive mathematics syllabus which covers the broad areas of the four arithmetic operations, decimals, mental arithmetic, algebra, statistics, graphs and tables, area and volume, time, shape, length, weight and capacity.  All areas of the syllabus are reviewed and developed each year allowing children to build on previous knowledge and ensuring high standards at 11, beyond the requirements of Common Entrance Examinations and Key Stage 2 SATs.

Topics are introduced in a structured way by the teacher and links between topics are emphasised.   Children are encouraged to explore and investigate ideas for themselves followed by class discussions to report on findings and reinforce results.  The emphasis at all times is on helping every child to be successful.

Our aim is to ensure that all children leave St. Mary's with a firm foundation on which to build and a confidence which will allow them to succeed at the next stage.

For more information on how you can support your child, please take a look at Mathematics  in 'How to support your child' in the 'Parents and Pupils' section.