Build it
The “build it” stage introduces new maths ideas using practical resources that children can hold and move. This helps children clearly see the size and value of numbers – for example, how groups of ten become a bigger number – rather than only seeing numbers written on a page.
Draw it
Once children understand the key idea and have “built it”, they “draw it” using simple pictures and diagrams to help them solve maths questions. For example, a bar model (a simple rectangular drawing) helps children turn a word question into a picture so they can see the numbers more clearly and decide what to do next.
Write it
After this, children “write it” by recording their answers clearly using numbers and written calculations in their books.
Say it
While children build, draw and write, we encourage them to talk about their learning. They discuss patterns they notice, make links with other subjects and real life, and practise using full sentences with correct mathematical vocabulary.
Curriculum
Our maths curriculum follows the expectations of the National Curriculum and is carefully planned so that children make steady progress from Nursery to Year 6. To support this, we use a clear progression plan based on the Enfield Medium Term plans, which allow children to revisit important maths ideas several times each year so learning is strengthened over time.
Our learning objectives are chosen so that children develop confidence with numbers, learn how to solve problems, and can explain their thinking.
Teachers use a wide range of practical resources to bring learning to life and make links with other subjects. For example, in Year 2 children make bread, using real measuring equipment and following a recipe, which also links to their history topic on The Great Fire of London. In Year 5, children investigate air resistance and apply their maths skills by collecting and analysing data using charts, tables and graphs.
Early Years (EYFS)
In the Early Years, children first experience maths through play, songs and stories. These regular activities help children build strong early knowledge that later maths learning grows from. Counting and recognising small numbers quickly are key skills at this age.
Maths opportunities are everywhere in EYFS – both indoors and outdoors. Children learn together during short carpet sessions, followed by small teacher-led groups. From the very start of their education, we aim to build curiosity and enjoyment in maths.
Children are encouraged to talk about their learning and understand that mistakes are part of learning. Role play is an important part of this, giving children chances to solve simple real-life problems using everyday equipment.
Times tables
Children use Times Tables Rock Stars, a fun online game, to practise their multiplication and division tables. Alongside this home learning, children also have short regular lessons during the week focused on particular times tables. These lessons may include songs, chanting or practical resources to help learning stick.
Our aim is for children to confidently know their times tables by the end of Year 4, so they can use this knowledge more easily when solving problems in Years 5 and 6.
Developing a love of mathematics
We celebrate maths through special themed days and whole-school activities. For example, the maths storybook “365 Penguins” has been used to get the whole school community talking about numbers and patterns.
We also run parent workshops to explain how maths is taught today and how parents and carers can support learning at home.
Success in Times Tables Rock Stars is recognised each week, helping to motivate and encourage children.
Teachers carefully support learning so that all children, including those with SEND, can succeed and enjoy maths. Additional challenge is also available for children who are particularly enthusiastic, for example through the Primary Maths Challenge (Years 5–6) and First Maths Challenge (Years 3–4).
In Year 6, children take part in Enterprise Week, where they apply their maths skills and learn about money and simple finance. Through our partnership with the financial literacy charity Redstart, we help children build the knowledge and skills they need to make informed financial decisions.
At Kingfisher Hall, we believe that confidence, curiosity and enjoyment in maths help children achieve their best – both in school and in their future lives.