At Blewbury C of E Primary School, we have adopted a mastery approach to the teaching of mathematics, which focuses on teaching for depth in understanding of mathematical concepts and ideas.

This approach enables all children to master the mathematics curriculum by building on their small steps. In order to deliver these small steps, we use a concrete, pictorial, abstract approach using manipulatives, models and images to embed concepts. Mental methods and high quality maths talk are at the heart of how we teach maths. Without these vital steps, children cannot deepen their understanding or stretch their thinking.

It draws heavily upon research conducted by the EEF (Education Endowment Fund) and their recommendations and is underpinned by the five ‘big ideas’ identified by the NCETM – Representation and Structure, Fluency, Variation, Coherence and Mathematical Thinking.

Maths Written Calculation Guidance Videos

. Children are introduced to the four number operations using pictorial representations and hands on learning. This gives them an understanding of why written methods are used in maths and how these work. This is a huge shift from rote learning methods. Formal written calculation methods are mostly introduced in Key Stage 2 (Year 3-6), although some may be taught in Year 2. These methods are ones that, as adults, we may be more used to using. It is important not to introduce these methods too early as it can hinder learning the ‘maths behind the method’.

These calculation videos have been created to remind children how to carry out written methods but also to enable parents and carers to see how the children are being taught and allow you to support your child in a way which consolidates their learning at school.

A rough outline of which stages are introduced at which age can be seen below:

If you have any questions about maths at Blewbury, please talk to your child’s class teacher, or email FAO the maths coordinator office.3248@blewbury.oxon.sch.uk

Please click on the links below to access our written calculation guidance videos: