Mathematics at Gladstone Primary Academy

Overview

At Gladstone Primary Academy, we are passionate about mathematics and believe that every child can succeed in the subject. Our approach to teaching maths promotes a deep understanding of number, fluency with key concepts, and a love of problem solving. We use a mastery approach, underpinned by the belief that all children can achieve in mathematics. Teaching is inclusive and supports pupils to become confident, resilient and independent mathematicians.

Maths is taught daily, with lessons carefully sequenced and structured to build on prior knowledge and move learning forward. From Early Years through to Year 6, we aim to ensure that all pupils develop the skills they need not only to succeed in the classroom but also in everyday life.

Curriculum and Progression

We follow the White Rose Maths scheme from Year 1 to Year 6, with pupils developing fluency, reasoning and problem-solving skills across all areas of the maths curriculum. Our Reception pupils take part in the Mastering Number programme developed by the NCETM, which lays secure foundations in number sense and supports transition into Key Stage 1. Mastering Number also continues into Year 1 and Year 2 as a short daily session alongside the main maths lesson.

Throughout the school, we ensure that children are exposed to a variety of mathematical representations and models to develop their conceptual understanding. Sentence stems, partner talk, key questioning and hands-on resources are used to encourage mathematical reasoning and collaborative learning. Lessons include opportunities for exploration, investigation, and discussion.

We teach in mixed ability groupings, using carefully considered pairings and scaffolds to ensure that all children access the curriculum and feel successful. Our motto is: “All can do maths.”

Curriculum Highlights

• Use of concrete, pictorial and abstract representations across all year groups
• Real-life problem solving and practical maths challenges
• Regular arithmetic practice to build fluency and confidence
• Use of NCETM Teaching for Mastery strategies to deepen understanding
• Whole-school focus on developing mathematical vocabulary and reasoning
• Working walls in every classroom support learning by displaying key vocabulary, current methods and models, and examples of pupil thinking
• Cross-curricular Maths: Maths is embedded into other subjects where appropriate, helping children to see its relevance in the real world.
• TT Rockstars and Numbots: These platforms are used regularly in class to support fluency in number facts and times tables. Pupils enjoy taking part in class competitions and inter-class battles, which help to build confidence and motivation.
• Year 6 workshops and SATs preparation delivered in an engaging and supportive way

Supporting Every Learner
At Gladstone, we provide targeted support and challenge for all learners. Children who need additional input receive timely interventions that focus on key concepts, using a "keep up not catch up" approach. Our mastery interventions are short, focused and designed to enable all children to access age-related content confidently.

What children say about Maths at Gladstone

Year 1:
🗨️ "I like counting with the cubes and making number towers. Maths is fun!"

Year 2:
🗨️ "We use tens and ones to help us. I’m getting really good at adding big numbers!"

Year 3:
🗨️ "In maths, we work with partners and help each other. Talking helps me understand better."

Year 4:
🗨️ "Everyone can be a mathematician. You just have to keep trying and not give up!"

Year 5:
🗨️ "We don’t just learn answers – we explain how we got them. I like showing my thinking."

Year 6:
🗨️ "Maths challenges me in a good way. It feels great when I solve something tricky!"