Stow Primary School and Nursery

Numeracy & Mathematics at Stow Primary School

Digital tools are central to numeracy at Stow Primary. Platforms such as Magma Maths and Sumdog allow learners to practise fluency, problem-solve and receive instant feedback in engaging, adaptive ways. These online tools personalise learning, identify next steps and provide opportunities for challenge and competition — all while supporting our focus on reasoning, accuracy and mathematical confidence.

Our Numeracy Vision

At Stow Primary, numeracy is about understanding the world through number, pattern, and problem-solving. We aim to develop confident, resilient mathematicians who enjoy exploring, questioning and making connections.

Our approach aligns with ON TRACK, helping learners be confident, reflective and achieving through perseverance, curiosity and collaboration.

How We Teach Numeracy & Mathematics

Early Level Numeracy (Learning Through Play)

At Early Level, children build strong number sense through hands-on exploration and play. They count, compare, measure, sort and investigate patterns using real materials indoors and outdoors.
Mathematical language and reasoning are developed through daily routines, songs, and play provocations.
Digital tools such as Sumdog Early Level and simple interactive games are introduced to support number recognition, sequencing and problem-solving in fun, meaningful contexts.

First Level Numeracy (Building Fluency and Reasoning)

At First Level (P2–P4), children deepen their understanding of number relationships, place value, shape, measure and data.
We use a Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) approach, moving from practical resources to visual representations and then to symbolic reasoning.
Online platforms such as Magma Maths and Sumdog provide personalised, adaptive practice that reinforces classroom learning, encourages perseverance and helps track progress.
These platforms are used alongside regular “Number Talks”, “Maths Through Stories”, and collaborative problem-solving tasks that develop fluency and flexible thinking.

Second Level Numeracy (Depth and Application)

At Second Level (P5–P7), pupils apply their mathematical understanding to increasingly complex, real-world problems. They use mathematical reasoning to justify strategies and solutions, and are encouraged to work both collaboratively and independently.
Digital tools such as Magma Maths, Sumdog Challenges, and spreadsheet modelling support this deeper learning — enabling learners to test hypotheses, visualise data and solve multi-step problems with increasing sophistication.
Regular online and in-class assessments inform teaching and help pupils set personal numeracy goals.

Assessment and Support

Teachers use formative assessment and tracking from both classroom and online platforms to plan next steps and provide targeted support. Mistakes are valued as opportunities to learn and discuss alternative strategies, fostering resilience and self-belief.