Why Teach Mathematics?
Mathematics is a creative and highly inter-connected discipline that has been developed over centuries, providing the solution to some of history’s most intriguing problems. It is essential to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering, and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment. A high-quality mathematics education therefore provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason mathematically, an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject.
Aims of the new national curriculum
The national curriculum for mathematics aims to ensure that all pupils:
- Become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, including through varied and frequent practice with increasingly complex problems over time, so that pupils develop conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately.
- Reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language.
- Can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions.
The teaching of mathematics at St. Catherine’s School is geared towards enabling each pupil to develop their learning without labelling them by ability. We endeavour to not only develop the mathematics skills and understanding required for later life, but also an enthusiasm and fascination about maths itself.
We aim to increase pupil confidence in maths so they are able to express themselves and their ideas using the language of maths with assurance.
We recognise the importance of developing factual, procedural and conceptual knowledge.
Supporting your child at home
As we enter the final term of the academic year, we would like to take this opportunity to provide some guidance on supporting your child with their mathematics learning at home. It is crucial for children to recognise the practical application of mathematical concepts beyond the classroom setting. By engaging in mathematical activities outside of school, children can deepen their understanding and appreciation for the subject.
Here are a few simple yet effective ideas for incorporating maths into your daily routines at home:
- Cooking and Baking: Encourage your child to help with measuring ingredients, adjusting recipes, and calculating cooking times. This practical application of maths skills can make the subject more real and enjoyable for children.
- Budgeting: Involve your child in family budgeting discussions or give them a set amount of money to manage for a specific task or purchase. This will help them develop essential financial literacy skills and reinforce their understanding of concepts such as addition, subtraction, and budget management.
- Measurement: Engage your child in activities that involve measuring objects around the house, such as measuring furniture, weighing ingredients, or calculating distances. This hands-on approach can enhance their spatial awareness and measurement skills.
- Maths Games and Puzzles: Encourage your child to play maths-related games, such as Sudoku, chess, or puzzles that require logical thinking and problem-solving skills. These activities can be both entertaining and educational, fostering a positive attitude towards maths.
Our school website’s Maths section provides website links for interactive online games and suggestions for further maths-related activities that you can explore with your child at home. Regularly engaging in these activities can complement and reinforce the learning experiences provided in the classroom.
Together, we can work towards enhancing your child’s mathematical skills and confidence.
Nursery – Number blocks series 1 overview
Nursery – Number blocks series 2 overview
Nursery – Number blocks series 3 overview
Maths Workshop Progression of Skills Multiplication and Division
Maths Workshop Progression of Skills Addition and Subtraction
Our latest activities page will be updated frequently, so please visit regularly: