Numeracy and Maths

At St Francis Primary, we aim to enable our children to become competent in all aspects of number and acquire the concepts and the mental agility necessary to be confident in applying mathematics in real life situations. The children are given many opportunities to develop these skills through a variety of practical activities and play situations.

We use daily SEAL activities (Stages of Arithmetical Learning) to develop robust mental agility This is further developed into Number Talks where children are encouraged to explain the strategies they use to solve a whole host of numerical problems.

Learning mathematics gives children and young people access to the wider curriculum and the opportunity to pursue further studies which may lead to careers in fields including science, technology and engineering. It helps to develop logical reasoning and allows children to think creatively. It gives them the opportunity to solve problems which is also an essential life skill.

Mathematics is divided into four outcomes:

Problem solving and enquiry

Information handling

Number, money, measurement

Shape, position and movement

Children will experience all of these outcomes throughout each year. By ensuring a clear progression in all four outcomes, children will develop key skills for life. In our everyday lives we are regularly required to estimate, use number processes, work with fractions and percentages, manage money and time, make measurements and read information from charts and tables. These fundamental skills will arm our children with the knowledge and capabilities to function responsibly in everyday life.