Mathematics Curriculum

Curriculum Intent

At Farnborough Road, we are committed to fostering a strong foundation in mathematics for our youngest learners. Our infant school curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, develop problem-solving skills, and ensure that each child gains confidence in their mathematical abilities. Through practical and engaging experiences, we aim to make maths enjoyable and accessible for all children, setting them up for success in future learning.

Curriculum Implementation

Structured Learning Approach

Our mathematics programme is built around a clear progression of skills, beginning with the basics and gradually building complexity. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework and the National Curriculum for Key Stage 1, which ensures that we meet the learning needs of every child and adhere to statutory requirements.

Hands-On, Practical Learning

We believe in learning through play and exploration, which is why our maths lessons are rich with hands-on activities. Children work with concrete resources such as blocks, counters, and number lines, allowing them to develop a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts through physical manipulation.

Mathematical Language Development

In the early years, developing the language of mathematics is crucial. We use everyday language to introduce mathematical concepts and consistently model the correct terminology, ensuring children can articulate their ideas with confidence.

This might involve:

• Describing shapes and patterns using words like "curved," "straight," "symmetrical," and "equal."
• Discussing number relationships using terms such as "more than," "less than," "half," "double," etc.
• Encouraging children to explain how they arrived at a solution or how they see a pattern, building both mathematical and verbal reasoning skills.

Differentiated Teaching to Support All Learners

Every child learns at their own pace, and our curriculum is designed to be flexible to support the varying needs of our learners. Through differentiation, we ensure that all children, from those who require extra support to those who are ready for greater challenges, can engage with maths in ways that suit their individual learning styles.

Our approach includes:

• Small group work for more focused teaching.
• Practical tasks for hands-on learning and engagement.
• Extension activities for children who are ready to explore concepts at a deeper level.

Continuous Assessment and Feedback

Assessment in the infant school is ongoing and formative, focusing on children's progress and understanding rather than just outcomes. We observe and assess children through activities, discussions, and practical tasks. This helps us to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate successes.

Regular feedback is provided to children, encouraging them to reflect on their learning and build confidence in their mathematical abilities.

Parental Involvement

We believe that a strong partnership between school and home is key to children's success in mathematics. We provide regular updates on children's progress and suggest fun maths activities that parents can do at home to reinforce learning. From counting games to shape-based crafts, we encourage parents to engage with their children’s mathematical development in everyday situations.

Curriculum Impact

The impact of our maths curriculum is evident in the confidence and enthusiasm with which children approach mathematical challenges. By the end of their time in the infant school, students demonstrate a strong understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts, including number sense, shape recognition, and measurement. They are able to apply their knowledge in practical situations, using mathematical language accurately and with ease. Our pupils develop resilience and problem-solving skills, tackling new concepts with curiosity and persistence. Most importantly, they leave the early years with a positive attitude towards maths, equipped with the foundational skills needed for future learning. Through ongoing assessments and feedback, we ensure that all children, regardless of their starting point, make significant progress and are well-prepared for the next stages of their education.

Children in Year 1 and Year 2 have achieved better than other children in Sefton and Nationally in the years 2019 to 2024 in Maths at the Expected and at the Greater Depth within the Expected Standard 

Due to the COVID pandemic, there haven't been any statutory tests undertaken in the years 2019-20,2020-21

There is no National Comparison Data from 2023-24