Mathematics is an interconnected subject in which pupils need to be able to move fluently between representations of mathematical ideas. Pupils should make rich connections across mathematical ideas to develop fluency, mathematical reasoning and competence in solving increasingly sophisticated problems. They should also apply their mathematical knowledge to science and other subjects.
We use the NCETM professional development materials to support our teaching of maths. These materials develop children’s mathematical vocabulary alongside progression through concrete, pictorial and abstract representations of a range of mathematical skills and knowledge. Decisions about when to progress should always be based on the security of pupils’ understanding and their readiness to progress to the next stage. Pupils who grasp concepts rapidly should be challenged through being offered rich and sophisticated problems before any acceleration through new content. Those who are not sufficiently fluent with earlier material should consolidate their understanding, including through additional practice, before moving on.
'For the things of this world cannot be made known without a knowledge of mathematics.'