Mathematics - The Whiteoak Way

‘Mathematics is how we describe our world when words are not enough. Everyone deserves to speak the language of mathematics and to play with mathematics to enjoy its beauty and its power.’

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At the Whiteoak Academies, we believe that mathematics is a vital tool for problem-solving, logical thinking and understanding the world around us. Our mathematics curriculum is designed to develop confident, resilient and curious learners by building strong foundations in mathematical knowledge and skills. We aim to ensure that all children become fluent in key concepts, can reason mathematically and apply their learning to real-life situations not only in mathematics, but across the wider curriculum.

We draw on the NCETM’s five big ideas in Teaching for Mastery in our teaching:

• Coherence
• Representation and structure
• Mathematical thinking
• Fluency
• Variation

Our curriculum is structured around a clear progression of skills from EYFS to Year 6, with each year group building on the knowledge and skills taught previously. This progression draws on the National Curriculum’s Ready to Progress criteria and fully aligns with the teaching for mastery approach, as outlined by the NCETM. As per the NCETM’s Five big ideas of teaching for mastery, coherence is carefully considered throughout the curriculum, ensuring that learning is connected, sequenced effectively and built through small, manageable steps. Supporting documentation outlining this progression and approach can be found below.

Mathematics is taught through two sessions daily: Maths Mastery lessons, which draw on resources from White Rose Maths, and factual fluency sessions, which use resources from Mastering Number.