Maths
Maths
Mathematics is as essential as being able to communicate confidently. The need to identify numbers and amounts, combine quantities and calculate, measure and estimate, and spot shapes – are all important mathematical (and life) skills.
At Lyndhurst, we recognise this and champion the development of pupils’ maths knowledge and understanding in a way that enhances the enjoyment of the subject.
In Early Years, this starts with learning to recognise and order numbers, count with accurate 1:1 correspondence and begin the basics of simple addition and subtraction. We also work on identifying shape and pattern and remembering key facts about time – such as the order of the days of the week. This foundation is built upon in Key Stage 1 with understanding place value, simple written calculations and beginning to look at times tables and simple units of measure. Lower Key Stage 2 will focus more on knowledge of times table facts, understanding fractions and time and extending place value to include rounding numbers up or down and decimals. By Upper Key Stage 2, children are using and applying their accumulated maths experience to carry out more complex written calculations, solve multi-step word problems and explore algebra.
We are aware that some people have had less than positive experiences with maths (often as a result of fear of making mistakes while at school) and we want to ensure that our pupils’ experiences are supportive, enthusing and empowering. Similarly, Lyndhurst is keen to offer advice to any parents who might be unsure as to what the next steps for their child might be, or how they can offer support to them. Maths Matters is an age-related series of resources available on our website, which outlines the learning targets for each year group and provides suggested activities to try at home.