Mathematics enables children to explore and develop skills in reasoning and problem solving as well as gaining an understanding of abstract language, symbols and representations.

At Long Ditton Infant and Nursery School we intend for our Mathematical teaching and learning to:

• Foster a sense of enjoyment where children are enthusiastic about their learning, are aware of the learning process and achievements are celebrated
• Engage children in this area of learning, helping them to see how these skills are relevant in their own lives
• Provide an interactive learning environment that encourages the development of mathematical concepts in a way that meets the varied needs of learners.

Mathematics in the EYFS

Mathematics is one of the seven areas of the Early Years Foundation Stage and is used to develop children's number confidence and ability and to encourage their understanding of mathematical concepts. Children develop their understanding in a broad range of contexts in which they can explore, enjoy, learn, practice and talk about their growing mathematical awareness. We develop their understanding through a range of exciting practical activities that foster children’s imagination and interest in this area. Children’s progress is monitored through ongoing teacher observations.

Mathematics in Key Stage 1

Children in KS1 will learn about maths in varied practical ways as well as developing more abstract ways to solve problems and do simple calculations. They will be working individually, as a whole class and in groups, and will be learning to use specific strategies to solving problems in different mathematical areas.

In Key Stage 1 Mathematics is divided into areas of learning:

• Number and place value
• Number and addition and subtraction
• Number and multiplication and division
• Fractions
• Measurement 
• Shape, position and direction
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Our Year 1 and Year 2 teaching builds on the children’s experiences in the Foundation Stage by maintaining a practical focus, introducing mathematical concepts in the context of real life experiences. The children take part in a daily Mathematics lessons. We also plan opportunities to use mathematics in other areas of the curriculum such as measuring in science and data collection in geography. Progress is monitored formally every half term alongside continual class assessment to identify the next steps in children’s learning and inform planning for future lessons.