Maths at Ashbourne Primary School

At Ashbourne Primary School, we want all pupils to become confident, capable and resilient mathematicians who can apply their understanding to a wide range of contexts.

We believe that mathematics is essential for everyday life and future success. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that all pupils develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts, alongside the confidence to reason, explain and solve problems independently.

We want all pupils to:

• Develop secure understanding of number and key mathematical concepts
• Become fluent in calculation and number facts
• Reason mathematically and explain their thinking clearly
• Solve problems confidently in a range of contexts
• Approach maths with confidence, resilience and a positive attitude

We recognise that mathematical success relies not only on knowledge, but also on pupils’ ability to persevere, think critically and communicate their ideas clearly.

Our maths curriculum is structured to ensure deep understanding, fluency and progression over time.

Mastery Approach

We follow a mastery approach to teaching mathematics, ensuring pupils develop a secure and connected understanding.

• Learning is broken into small, carefully sequenced steps
• Concepts are taught using concrete, pictorial and abstract representations
• Pupils revisit and build on prior knowledge

We use the White Rose Maths scheme to support consistent and progressive teaching across the school.

Fluency, Reasoning and Problem Solving

Mathematics is taught through three key areas:

• Fluency – developing accuracy and efficiency in calculation
• Reasoning – explaining and justifying mathematical thinking
• Problem solving – applying knowledge in different contexts

Daily Maths and Additional Practice

• Maths is taught daily in all year groups
• Additional maths skills sessions strengthen number sense and fluency
• Programmes such as Mastering Number support early mathematical understanding

Use of Resources and Representations

We use a range of resources to support understanding, including:

• Practical equipment (e.g. counters, place value resources)
• Visual models and representations
• Structured examples and guided practice

These help pupils to understand concepts deeply before moving to abstract methods.

As a result of our maths curriculum, pupils at Ashbourne Primary:

• Develop strong number sense and fluency
• Explain their reasoning using precise mathematical language
• Solve problems with increasing confidence and independence
• Show resilience when faced with challenge
• Engage positively with mathematics

They leave Ashbourne Primary as confident mathematicians, ready to apply their skills in the next stage of their education and in everyday life.

Linked to Our Golden Threads

Our maths curriculum supports our Golden Threads:

• Language and Literacy – pupils develop precise mathematical vocabulary and explain their reasoning clearly, using language to justify and communicate their thinking
• Resilience and Regulation – pupils are encouraged to persevere, take risks and learn from mistakes, developing confidence and a positive approach when tackling challenging problems
• Belonging and Becoming – pupils feel supported and valued as learners, building confidence in their mathematical ability and recognising that everyone can succeed through effort and practice

Maths Overviews

Maths is taught to each year group discreetly. Maths is taught daily. Please see the long-term overviews below to find out what each year group will be learning at different stages in the year.