Maths

Mathematics

At St Peter Chanel, we follow the Maths Mastery scheme throughout the school. Teaching for mastery differs in many key respects from more traditional methods, perhaps most fundamentally in the idea that everyone can learn.

In a conventional primary maths lesson, children are placed in different groups and given different content based on their perceived ability. From an early age, therefore, children are labeled as those who can do maths and those who can’t.

This can be devastating.

It can also be avoided.

The mastery approach rejects the idea that only some children can do well in maths. It embraces the idea that everyone can do well, regardless of prior attainment. Teaching maths for mastery offers all pupils access to the full maths curriculum. This inclusive approach and its emphasis on promoting multiple methods of solving a single problem builds self-confidence and resilience in pupils.

As George Pólya said, “It is better to solve one problem five different ways, than to solve five problems one way.”

Learning Passports

At St Peter Chanel, we use learning passports to ensure that all children leave each year group having achieved at least all the key learning objectives required for them to successfully transition into the next year group. If parents want to support children at home, these documents are a good place to start.

Times Tables

Times tables are an incredibly important part of maths - they underpin a number of fundamental concepts that children learn. From as early as Year R, children begin counting in 2s. This progresses right through until Year 4 when they are expected to know all their times tables up to 12 x 12. At the end of Year 4, children sit a multiplication check to ensure they have secure times tables knowledge.

To support children's development, we use Times Tables Rock Stars, which encourages children to practice daily in a fun, competitive way. This is used in school and at home. If parents need support logging in, please speak to your class teacher.