Maths

Intent

At Riversdale, mastering mathematics means pupils develop a deep, long-term, secure and adaptable understanding of the subject. Teachers plan small, coherent steps that build strong foundations, using precise mathematical language and retrieval practice to strengthen memory. Through the consistent use of the concrete–pictorial–abstract approach, all pupils are supported and challenged, with misconceptions anticipated and addressed, and high attainers extended through depth rather than acceleration. Teachers provide meaningful opportunities for problem solving in real-life contexts and across the wider curriculum, ensuring that mathematical knowledge is applied and connected. Reasoning is developed through carefully crafted questions, structured talk and comparison of strategies, enabling pupils to think critically and explain their ideas with confidence. Daily practice of key facts and efficient methods builds fluency so that pupils calculate accurately and efficiently, while always understanding the why as well as the how.

Implementation

To achieve our intent, children are taught with a range of carefully selected resources and challenging questioning within a range of real-world contexts that encourage the practical application of their learning. This is done through the use of the Maths, No Problem! (MNP) text book scheme, from Reception through to Year 6, which builds upon the principles and research of the Singapore model of maths teaching and supports the mastery approach. 

Below you will find our current mathematics coverage documentation, which identifies how we utilise the MNP scheme to teach maths with sufficient depth to ensure that pupils successfully progress through the national curriculum, and are prepared for further mathematical study in secondary education and beyond. 

• Reception Coverage - In the process of being updated.
• Year 1 Coverage
• Year 2 Coverage
• Year 3 Coverage
• Year 4 Coverage
• Year 5 Coverage
• Year 6 Coverage

Children undertake a minimum of one maths lesson per day, with children in Early Years and Key Stage 1, also undertaking regular Mastering Number sessions throughout the week.

We work closely with the South West London Maths Hub and other local schools to ensure the highest quality maths provision for our pupils.

Mastering Number

The mastering number project aims to embed firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2. The aim is that children will leave KS1 with fluency in calculation as well as a confidence and flexibility working with number. In the Reception year, key knowledge and understanding will be developed so as to provide all learners with a strong start in number, and progression through KS1 will support future success in KS2.

Mathematics Calculation Policy

At Riversdale Primary School, we believe that consistency of approach is important, in ensuring pupils make sustained progress. We therefore have in place a clear calculation policy that is adhered to by all staff. We invite parents/carers to also have a look, so that they are bet informed to provide support at home. You can find it here. 

Mathematics Dictionary

We recognise that mathematics terminology can be complex. To this end, we have developed a Mathematics Dictionary for Parents/Carers to hopefully support home learning. You can find it here. 

Curriculum Policies

Please find our Maths policy below:

• 2025 - 2028 Mathematics Policy