Maths
Mastering Number
In our Early Years setting, we introduce mathematics through the Mastering Number programme. This approach helps children develop a deep, secure and adaptable understanding of early number. Concepts are carefully revisited and woven into continuous provision so that children can apply their learning in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Our aim is for every child to leave the Early Years with a confident grasp of early number concepts. This strong foundation ensures they are well-prepared to tackle more advanced mathematical learning as they move into Key Stage 1.
As children move into Key Stage 1, Mastering Number continues to play a key role in developing strong number fluency. In Years 1 and 2, pupils participate in daily, structured fluency sessions alongside their main mathematics lessons. These sessions focus on deepening understanding of number relationships, developing efficient mental strategies and building automaticity with key facts such as number bonds and doubles.
In the classroom, this approach is highly interactive and practical. Pupils use a range of carefully selected manipulatives—such as rekenreks, tens frames and bead strings—to explore mathematical ideas and make connections between representations. Teachers model clear mathematical language, encourage children to reason aloud and provide opportunities for discussion and problem-solving. Short, focused activities help pupils strengthen their confidence and accuracy, while also ensuring concepts are revisited and embedded over time.
By continuing Mastering Number into Key Stage 1, we ensure that pupils maintain a secure foundation in early number, enabling them to confidently access the wider maths curriculum as it becomes more complex.
White Rose Maths
Across Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, our maths curriculum is taught using the White Rose Maths scheme. This approach provides a clear, carefully sequenced progression of learning from Year 1 through to Year 6, ensuring that mathematical knowledge is built securely over time.
White Rose lessons are structured to help pupils develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts rather than relying on rote methods. Each small step is explored using a range of representations—including concrete resources, pictorial models, and abstract notation—so that children can make meaningful connections in their learning.
In the classroom, teachers use a combination of guided practice, problem-solving tasks, and opportunities for mathematical discussion. Pupils are encouraged to explain their thinking, explore different strategies, and apply their skills in varied contexts. The structure of the White Rose scheme ensures key ideas are revisited regularly, helping to strengthen fluency and confidence across all areas of mathematics.
By following White Rose Maths throughout Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, we provide pupils with a consistent, well-designed curriculum that supports them in becoming capable, resilient mathematicians who are well-prepared for the next stage of their education.
Learning by Questions (LBQ)
In Key Stage 2, pupils also benefit from using Learning by Questions (LbQ) to support and deepen their mathematical understanding. LbQ provides interactive question sets that allow children to work at their own pace while receiving instant feedback. This immediate response helps pupils identify misconceptions quickly and supports them in taking ownership of their learning.
In the classroom, teachers use LbQ to enhance live teaching. As pupils work through carefully sequenced questions, teachers can view real-time data showing how the class is progressing. This enables timely intervention, targeted support and rich mathematical discussions based on the strategies and errors the system highlights. LbQ also encourages pupils to develop resilience, independence and confidence as they practise new skills and revisit prior learning.
By integrating LbQ into our Key Stage 2 Maths curriculum, we provide pupils with an engaging, responsive and highly effective tool that strengthens fluency, deepens understanding and reinforces the high-quality teaching delivered through the White Rose scheme.