Maths

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Maths Curriculum Principles

Teaching for Mastery

ncetm_five_big_ideas_updated_feb_2024.pdf

Support for Parents

White Rose Maths

Using White Rose Maths (WRM), we teach Maths as a lifelong skill. We provide pupils with high quality lessons to develop mathematical fluency, as well as the confidence to solve a wide range of mathematical problems. We intend to build knowledge, skills and understanding by revisiting concepts at regular intervals, and by providing pupils with the opportunity to refresh and rehearse them through practice, consolidation and deepening at every age and stage.

Representations Used in Maths

At Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School, we use a range of representations in maths to help children understand concepts deeply and make connections in their learning. These include concrete resources (such as counters, cubes and place value charts), pictorial models (like bar models and number lines), and abstract methods (such as written calculations and symbols). By moving between these representations, pupils develop strong number sense and confidence in problem-solving.

Representations used in maths(web)

WRM calculation policy 2024(web).pdf

Calculation Policy - Overview and Foundation Stage(web)

Calculation Policy – Supporting Consistent and Clear Maths Learning

We have adopted the calculation policy from White Rose maths. The policy sets out the methods we use to teach addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division across the school. It ensures a consistent approach from year to year, helping children build on their knowledge step by step. The policy also explains how we use practical resources, visual models, and written methods to support understanding at each stage. By following this progression, children gain confidence, accuracy, and a deep understanding of how numbers work. This document is a helpful guide for parents too, so you can see how maths is taught and support your child at home with methods that match the classroom.

One Minute Maths

Designed for use both in class and at home, White Rose Maths 1-minute maths app helps children build greater number confidence and fluency. It’s all about targeted practice in engaging, one-minute chunks.

For a unique three-word access code, please speak to your child's class teacher.

Able Mathematicians

What makes a good mathematician? What skills do you need in order to be efficient? What do you learn about in maths? Who helps you and how? We asked some of our mathematicians at Bluecoat School. Watch the films to find out their thoughts!

Thank you Megan, Will, Matthew and Hayden for your contributions.

Maths Research

During 2019, Dr Ruth Trundley and Dr Helen J. Williams worked in collaboration with two schools – Great Torrington Bluecoat Church of England Primary School in Devon, and St Ives Infant School in Cornwall – to investigate how variation theory (Marton & Tsui, 2005) might be applied to the teaching of early number in year 1 (children aged between five and six years old).

The project had three aims:

To increase understanding of how variation theory might be applied in relation to younger learners.
To further understanding of how variation might foster young children’s developing mathematics sense.
To develop pedagogical subject knowledge of the effects of conscious (and unconscious) decisions regarding resource-use.

The project ran during the spring and summer terms of 2019, and involved three teachers in three year 1 classes. The mathematical focus was on the move from ‘counting-all’ to ‘counting-on’, which research indicates is critical to numerical understanding (Nunes & Bryant, 2009).

https://www.atm.org.uk/write/MediaUploads/Journals/MT270/Ruth_Trundley_and_Helen_J_Williams.pdf

https://www.bera.ac.uk/publication/learning-from-variation

https://www.bera.ac.uk/blog/what-is-variation-in-early-years-mathematics

Loughborough University: The role of problem format in word problem-solving performance

During Summer 2022, Bluecoat is taking part in a research study carried out by Loughborough University investigating the role of problem format in word problem-solving performance. Please see the letter below with full details.

Parent Guardian-Information Sheet

Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

At Great Torrington Bluecoat C of E Primary School, we aim to ensure every child develops strong mathematical foundations, including mastering multiplication tables. The Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) is an important tool designed to assess pupils' fluency with times tables up to 12x12.

What is the Multiplication Tables Check?

The MTC is a statutory assessment for all Year 4 pupils in England. It is an online, on-screen test consisting of 25 questions. The check is designed to help schools and teachers identify pupils who may need additional support in mastering their times tables.

How Does the Check Work?

Format: Pupils will answer 25 multiplication questions.
Time Limit: Each question must be answered within 6 seconds, with a 3-second pause between questions.
Content: Questions are randomly generated, focusing on tables from 2 to 12.
Duration: The check takes approximately 5 minutes to complete.

Why is the Multiplication Tables Check Important?

Building Fluency: Mastery of times tables helps children solve more complex mathematical problems with confidence.
Identifying Support Needs: The check highlights areas where additional practice may be needed.
Preparation for Key Stage 2: A strong understanding of multiplication supports success in a range of mathematical topics as pupils progress.

Preparing for the MTC

We provide various opportunities for pupils to practice and build their confidence, including:

Daily Practice: Regular short practice sessions during maths lessons.
Interactive Tools: Access to platforms such as Times Tables Rock Stars.
Home Support: Encouraging practice at home using games, apps, and flashcards.
Mock Checks: Familiarising pupils with the format and pace of the MTC through practice assessments.

How Parents Can Support at Home

Parents play a vital role in helping children develop fluency with times tables. Here are some suggestions:

Regular Practice: Encourage daily practice, focusing on tables your child finds challenging.
Use Fun Methods: Try singing multiplication songs, using apps, or playing online games.
Ask Questions: Test your child informally, e.g., "What is 6 x 7?"
Celebrate Progress: Praise effort and improvement to boost confidence.

When Does the MTC Take Place?

The check usually occurs in June each year. Your child’s teacher will inform you of the exact date and provide guidance on how to best prepare.

Additional Information

If you have any questions or concerns about the Multiplication Tables Check, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher. Together, we can ensure that every child has the tools to excel in mathematics!

DfE - Introductory Video

Please note: This video was created during the development of the multiplication tables check (MTC).

The MTC is now statutory for all year 4 pupils registered at state-funded maintained schools, special schools and academies, including free schools, in England.

NCETM - Parent Presentation for Mastering Number

NCETM_MasteringNumberKS2_parent information

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