In Barsail Primary we believe that having sound skills in Numeracy and Mathematics is important for all our pupils to compete in an ever changing world. To face the many challenges in the world around us they will need to be able to apply various aspects of mathematics in order to be successful. Using many skills in Numeracy and Mathematics helps to maximise their life chances and give the confidence to recognise when and how to apply their skills in a range of situations, some of which are predictable and others which are new to them.

Aims:

 At Barsail Primary we aim to:

• provide learning environments rich in number and mathematical contexts that reflect the Principles of Curriculum for Excellence: challenge and enjoyment; breadth; progression; depth; personalisation and choice; coherence; and relevance
• ensure all staff recognise that levels of achievement in Numeracy and Mathematics have an impact on future opportunities for all pupils
• ensure that all staff understand approaches designed to improve learners’ mathematical skills and experiences
• engage with the experiences and outcomes in Numeracy and Mathematics, develop numeracy across learning to ensure effective progression and continuity
• ensure all learners are provided with maximum opportunities to analyse, evaluate, create, understand, remember and apply Numeracy and Mathematical skills effectively with confidence
• make certain all pupils are engaged, challenged and motivated to increase their achievement and attainment in Numeracy and Mathematics

In Barsail Primary teaching and learning is directed by the experiences and outcomes of Curriculum for Excellence. Learning and Teaching methodologies are planned to promote effective learning and teaching which provide motivation and challenge. As a result, we give our pupils learning experiences that are more relevant to real-life learning contexts, ensuring that our pupils develop as successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens.

“Mental agility is an essential skill. As adults, we need to estimate and calculate every day.   This skill must be developed from the early stages. In all learning in Numeracy and Mathematics, lack of fluency in mental processes is a major barrier to progress.”  SSLN Professional Learning Resource: Numeracy and Mathematics Skills

At least three times per week, children are involved in Number Talk discussions within their classroom, which lasts around 10-20 minutes. Children use a variety of mathematical strategies to explain and solve mathematical problems. Primary 1 – 3 children focus on ‘Superhero’ strategy posters and Primary 4 – 7 focus on addition, subtraction, multiplication and division strategy posters. Teacher follow the Renfrewshire Council Number Talk planners. (Appendix 1-3) (Posters and Number Talk resources can be found in the Numeracy folder on the NAS) Teachers will highlight mental maths planner in Learning and Teaching files.

Following council guidelines, we use SEAL methodology across the school when focusing on teaching children core numeracy skills and use these strategies to support the teaching of mental agility further up the school. We use council planners and ensure children have regular input each week.