Mathematics at St Cuthbert’s

Mathematics helps children to make sense of the world around them. It is an important life skill that supports learning across all subjects and prepares children for everyday life. At St Cuthbert’s, we want all children to feel confident, capable and positive about maths.
We teach maths in a clear and structured way so that children develop a deep understanding and can apply their knowledge in everyday life.

How We Teach Maths

  • Maths is taught every day in all year groups

  • Lessons are broken into small steps so children can build understanding gradually
  • We focus on fluency, reasoning and problem solving
  • Children learn together, with support and challenge provided where needed
  • Teachers quickly identify and address misunderstandings
  • Talking about maths and using the correct vocabulary is an important part of learning

Our aim: that all children keep up, feel successful and develop confidence in maths.

What This Looks Like

Early Years (Reception)

  • Daily maths sessions using Mastering Number
  • Learning through play indoors and outdoors
  • Focus on counting, patterns and understanding numbers to 10

Key Stage 1 (Years 1–2)

  • Daily structured maths lessons
  • Extra number fluency sessions every day
  • Weekly practice to build calculation skills
  • Early introduction to counting and times tables

Key Stage 2 (Years 3–6)

  • Daily maths lessons following small step progression
  • Regular arithmetic practice to build fluency
  • Focus on reasoning and problem solving
  • Times tables taught and revisited regularly

Supporting Every Child

We make sure every child can succeed by:

  • Adapting lessons to meet individual needs
  • Providing pre-teaching where needed
  • Using practical resources to support understanding
  • Offering extra support the same day if children need it
  • Challenging children to deepen their thinking

All children have access to the full curriculum and are supported to achieve their best.

How You Can Help at Home

You don’t need to be a maths expert — simple everyday activities make a big difference!

💰 Money

  • Let your child use coins when shopping
  • Ask them to work out totals or change
  • Talk about prices and budgeting

⏰ Telling the Time

  • Practise reading an analogue clock and a digital clock
  • Talk about daily routines (e.g. “What time do we leave?”)
  • Use timetables (TV, clubs, day trips)

📏 Measuring

  • Involve your child in cooking and baking
  • Compare weights, lengths and heights
  • Talk about temperature and time

🔢 Counting

  • Count objects around the house
  • Count backwards as well as forwards
  • Use counting in real situations (stairs, shopping, toys)

✖️ Times Tables

  • Pupils can use TT Rockstars regularly from Year 2
  • Practise little and often (5–10 minutes)
  • Chant, sing or quiz in fun ways

🧩 Problem Solving & Puzzles

  • Play board games and card games
  • Complete jigsaw puzzles
  • Try number puzzles like sudoku
  • Encourage logical thinking and perseverance

Supporting Homework

  • Create a regular, calm time for maths practice
  • Encourage your child to explain their thinking
  • Focus on understanding, not just getting the answer
  • Praise effort, resilience and trying new strategies

It’s okay if they find it tricky – that’s part of learning!

Our Aim

We want all children to:

  • Enjoy maths
  • Feel confident in their abilities
  • Develop strong skills and understanding
  • Be able to use maths in real life

Working together, we can help every child become a successful mathematician.

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