OFSTED September 2023

At Portway Infant School we teach mathematics in each year group everyday. In foundation, we follow the NCETM (National Centre of Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics) mastering number scheme of work which follows the development matters framework and the Early Learning Goals for the end of the year which is split into Number and Number pattern. The mastering number scheme is split into four key mathematical themes which are:

-subitising

-cardinality, ordinality and counting

-composition

-comparison 

In year 1 and 2 we teach the national curriculum objectives via the NCETM scheme of work which is split into key concepts:

-number and place value

-number facts

-addition and subtraction

-Geometry 

-space shape and measure 

-multiplication and division (in year 2 only)

We also teach the NCETM mastering number daily sessions which support the children's fluency and reasoning. The NCETM website states that the mastering number scheme for KS1  'aims to secure firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2. The aim over time is that children will leave KS1 with fluency in calculation and a confidence and flexibility with number.' 

In the foundation stage we learn through the use and exploration of practical resources and manipulables, video clips, games and discussion. We start to write some formal written mathematical work later in the year once we have supported the children with their prime areas of development such as gross motor and communication. 

In KS1 the children use manipulables, practical resources and pictorial representations to support their learning and record their work in their Mathematics books. They also learn mathematics concepts through active maths lessons which may not be recorded in books but are a fantastic way to support the children's learning and support their memory to make the learning stick. 

We have uploaded the mathematics curriculum map for you to read which details which national curriculum objectives are taught when and how. We have also uploaded the progression grid which shows what the children have learnt before starting Portway at nursery, what they learn in foundation, year 1 and year 2 and what they will learn when they leave us and move onto year 3. 

As teachers and support staff we also ensure we work to meet the individual needs of our children and support them with their own level of scaffolding to ensure they can access the learning and achieve their best in mathematics.