Mathematics

All things are possible for one who believes – Mark 9:23

At Waverley Abbey, we want all children to be confident, capable and enthusiastic learners who are passionate about mathematics. Through a positive and caring environment, we provide the opportunity for all pupils to reach their full potential with a wide range of learning experiences across all areas of the subject.

In mathematics, we want to empower our pupils by gifting them with the ability to think, learn, reason, problem-solve, persist and experiment – all life skills for the future. We strive to give pupils the ability to function with independence and autonomy in maths and are there to support them on their journey.

Once pupils have achieved this mathematical fluency, we seek to embed and deepen their understanding by developing their reasoning and problem solving skills. This will be facilitated using activities designed to provoke mathematical thinking through:

• Conjecture

• Discussion

• Evidence

• Explanation

• Exploration

• Generalisation

• Justification

• Linking areas of knowledge

• Observation

Curriculum Intent

At Waverley Abbey, we aim to provide all children with a strong foundation in mathematics that prepares them for future learning and life. We aim to develop a deep understanding of number, reasoning, and problem-solving, while fostering resilience and confidence. Children are encouraged to take risks and learn from mistakes, helping them build a positive mindset where they enjoy maths and feel successful.

Our curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity and logical thinking through engaging and challenging lessons. We ensure that every child maximises their academic achievement and feels supported throughout their learning journey. We nurture inquisitive learners who are confident, reflective, and ready to apply their skills in real-world contexts.

We aim to develop positive attitudes towards mathematics and give children a sense of achievement. Enjoyment and enthusiasm for learning are promoted through practical activity, exploration, and discussion. Pupils gain confidence and competence with numbers and the number system, and develop a range of strategies for solving mental calculations, written calculations, and word problems.

Our curriculum stimulates natural curiosity, encouraging children to ask questions, explore patterns, and explain or justify their reasoning through discussion with peers and the whole class. We support children in solving problems through decision making and logical thinking, and stretch every child, regardless of ability, to reach their full potential in maths. Opportunities for cooperative learning are embedded, and children are helped to understand the importance of mathematics in everyday life.

Curriculum Implementation

At Waverley Abbey, our maths curriculum is delivered through high-quality teaching that is responsive to the needs of all learners.

All teachers have a secure understanding of the maths curriculum and subject knowledge, enabling them to deliver lessons with clarity and confidence. Short-term plans are supported by a range of resources and are adapted to meet the needs of individual pupils. This ensures bespoke teaching that supports progress for all.

Our teachers use assessment and prior knowledge to identify key areas of focus, allowing for targeted teaching and timely intervention. All our lessons are designed to be interactive and enjoyable, with a strong emphasis on pupil engagement and mathematical discussion.

We follow the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) approach to support deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Children are encouraged to take ownership of their learning through self-assessment and reflection.

Maths is predominantly taught in parallel groups, allowing for tailored support and challenge. Groupings are flexible and based on learning needs, with additional interventions provided where necessary.

This approach ensures that all children are supported to develop fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills in a way that is meaningful and accessible.

Learning at home is supported through the use of MyMaths and Times Table Rock Stars. Homework is set through the MyMaths website and children are encouraged to practise their times tables several times weekly by using the Times Table Rock Stars website.

Our Approach to Calculation

Mental Calculations

The ability to calculate mentally lies at the heart of numeracy. At Waverley Abbey, we believe that it is essential to emphasise mental methods throughout the school, with regular opportunities for all pupils to develop the different skills involved. Great importance is placed upon the learning of tables and number bonds as these underpin all other number work.

These skills include:

• Remembering number facts and recalling them without hesitation;

• Using the facts that are known by heart to figure out new facts.

• Understanding and using the relationships between the ‘four rules’ to work out answers and check results.

• Drawing on a repertoire of mental strategies to work out calculations.

• We believe that number bonds and tables facts are the building blocks of mathematics. When these facts are committed to memory and used on an everyday basis they allow pupils to have the confidence and understanding to move on to more complex methods of calculation.

Informal Jottings

As pupils progress to working with larger numbers they will learn more sophisticated mental methods and tackle more complex problems. At this stage, it can be hard for pupils to hold all the steps of a calculation in their heads and so informal pencil and paper notes become part of their mental strategies. These personal jottings are an important stage in getting the right answer and acquiring fluency in mental calculation.

Standard Written Methods

For each operation, at least one standard written method is taught but the progression towards these methods is crucial, since they are based on steps which are done mentally and which need to be secured first.

Please find below the calculation policies for each operation and an overview of the content taught in each year group as per the National Curriculum.

Curriculum Impact

At Waverley Abbey, the impact of our maths curriculum is evident in the confidence, fluency, and depth of understanding demonstrated by our pupils. Children show quick recall of key facts and procedures, including secure knowledge of times tables, which supports their ability to solve problems efficiently.

They demonstrate flexibility and fluidity in applying mathematical concepts across different contexts and representations, showing a strong grasp of how mathematics connects to real-life situations. Pupils are able to recognise relationships and make meaningful connections between mathematical ideas.

Our children approach maths with confidence, believing in their ability to succeed. This positive mindset is reflected in their willingness to tackle challenges and persevere. They also take great pride in the presentation and accuracy of their work, showing a high level of care and understanding in their mathematical learning.

If you would like to find out more about the curriculum please make an appointment to see your child's teacher who will be happy to discuss this with you, you can do this by contacting school through the office via - info@waverley-abbey.surrey.sch.uk.