Mathematics

Mathematics at Our Lady of the Rosary

At Our Lady of the Rosary, we believe that mathematics is an essential life skill that helps children to make sense of the world around them. Through our maths curriculum, pupils develop curiosity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for future learning and everyday life. We aim to foster a love of mathematics, encouraging all children to approach challenges with confidence, perseverance, and joy.

Mathematics is taught daily across the school, with lessons carefully sequenced to build on prior knowledge and deepen understanding over time. We follow a mastery approach, ensuring that all pupils develop a secure and fluent grasp of key concepts before moving on. This approach allows children to make connections across mathematical ideas and apply their learning in a range of contexts.

In the Early Years, children explore mathematical ideas through play, stories, songs, and practical activities. They begin to develop an understanding of number, pattern, and shape through meaningful, hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and enjoyment.

As pupils move through Key Stages 1 and 2, lessons combine fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving. Concrete and pictorial resources are used alongside abstract representations to support understanding at every stage. Teachers use careful questioning, modelling, and discussion to help pupils articulate their thinking and develop mathematical reasoning.

Retrieval opportunities are built into lessons to reinforce previous learning and strengthen long-term understanding. Key number facts, such as times tables and number bonds, are revisited regularly so that pupils can recall them with confidence and apply them flexibly in new situations.

Our maths curriculum promotes deep understanding by encouraging pupils to explore ideas, notice patterns, and explain their reasoning. Mistakes are viewed as valuable learning opportunities, helping children to develop resilience and a positive attitude towards challenge.

Pupils are encouraged to talk about their mathematical thinking, use precise vocabulary, and represent their ideas in different ways. This focus on communication supports not only mathematical understanding but also wider literacy and critical thinking skills.

Real-life contexts and cross-curricular links help children see the relevance of maths in the wider world—whether measuring ingredients in cooking, exploring symmetry in art, or analysing data in science.

Mathematics at Our Lady of the Rosary is enriched through engaging experiences that bring learning to life. Pupils take part in problem-solving days, maths investigations, and national events such as NSPCC Number Day. Mathematical challenges and puzzles are displayed around the school, encouraging curiosity and collaboration.

We celebrate effort and achievement in maths through certificates, assemblies, and displays of pupil work. Staff also take part in professional development and collaborative planning to ensure high-quality, consistent teaching across the school.

As children progress through Our Lady of the Rosary, they develop fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills that form a strong foundation for future learning. They leave us as confident, resilient mathematicians—able to think critically, explain their ideas, and approach new challenges with enthusiasm and determination.