Mathematics

Vision Statement:

At Washingwell we recognise that maths teaches us how to make sense of the world around us through developing a child’s ability to calculate, to reason and to solve problems. It enables children to understand and appreciate relationships and pattern in both number and space in their everyday lives. Through their growing knowledge and understanding, children learn to appreciate the contribution made by many cultures to the development and application of mathematics. our aim is for children to leave as confident, skilled and resilient mathematicians; who understand that mathematics is a fundamental part of everyday life and the world we live in.

We will give children real-life learning experiences and opportunities to ensure that they are money-smart and confident to deal with the challenges the world presents. Mathematics is integral to all aspects of life and with this in mind, we endeavour to ensure that children develop a healthy and enthusiastic attitude, and a deep understanding, that will stay with them for life.

Our children will thrive upon conquering the challenges and puzzles that mathematics will bring and not be afraid to make mistakes.

Our school bases the core work in maths around the National Curriculum which aims to ensure that all pupils:

• become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics developing conceptual understanding and the ability to recall and apply knowledge rapidly and accurately
• reason mathematically by following a line of enquiry, conjecturing relationships and generalisations, and developing an argument, justification or proof using mathematical language
• can solve problems by applying their mathematics to a variety of routine and non-routine problems with increasing sophistication, including breaking down problems into a series of simpler steps and persevering in seeking solutions

What does maths offer children? How does it enhance the curriculum?

• promote enjoyment and enthusiasm for learning through practical activity, exploration and discussion promote confidence and competence with numbers and the number system;
• develop the ability to solve problems through decision-making and reasoning in a range of contexts;
• develop a practical understanding of the ways in which information is gathered and presented;
• explore features of shape and space, and develop measuring skills in a range of contexts;
• understand the importance of mathematics in everyday life.

What use is it to children in later life? 

• Basic maths skills form the foundations for all aspects of future life – it is embedded in all aspects of everyday living.
• Supports them to challenge or question, and not be beaten when an answer is difficult to reach.
• Provides children with skills such as problem solving, analytical thinking, quantitative reasoning and critical thinking which can be used and applied in all aspects of life.
• Mathematical knowledge, skills and understanding can lead into career paths such as medicine, research, teaching, engineering, retail, accountancy, banking, IT, beauty, construction and many more.

Please click on the relevant link below to see the expectations for your child’s year group in this subject: