Mathematics Co-ordinator - Mr Robert Pressling

Pupils throughout the school are encouraged to enjoy this subject. The working environment is such that a child feels secure to attempt new challenges as they are set.

Children learn both formal and informal ways of calculation and a variety of methods for using the four rules of number which are extensively explored over the years. Times tables are taught at the end of Year 1 and are regularly practised in subsequent year groups to consolidate their knowledge which is put to good use in mental mathematic work. An emphasis is put on learning mental strategies and how these differ from written methods.

The children enjoy topic work and progress with plenty of hands on experience using practical apparatus. Data handling is repeatedly visited firstly by collating class data and by representing the information as block graphs, Venn diagrams, pictograms, tables and Carroll diagrams. The children then use the skills that they have learnt to interpret information set before them. Probability is explored beginning with the idea of certain and impossible to the expression of probability as a fraction or percentage.

The topic of shape and space is explored through practical work, investigating the properties of 2D and 3D shapes and their dynamics as they are rotated and reflected. Angles in shapes are visited early on in the school beginning with right angles and later progress to calculating missing angles as they move further up the school.

Much importance is placed on the continuous progression of the application of skills to everyday situations and problem solving, ensuring that our children are thoroughly prepared for entrance to Secondary education.