Mathematics - Statement of Intent

Aims and Objectives

At Elmtree Infant and Nursery School mathematics teaches children how to make sense of the world around us through developing a child’s ability to calculate, to reason and to solve problems. It enables children to understand and appreciate relationships and pattern in both number and space in their everyday lives.

The aims of mathematics at Elmtree are:

• to promote enjoyment and enthusiasm for learning of maths.
• to promote confidence and competence with numbers and the number system.
• to develop the ability to solve problems with increasing sophistication (including in unfamiliar contexts and real-life scenarios).
• to develop a practical understanding of the ways in which information is gathered and presented.
• to explore features of shape and space, and develop measuring skills in a range of contexts.
• to be able to recall and apply previously acquired concepts, skills, knowledge and understanding to new situations both in and out of school.
• to use a concrete, pictorial and abstract approach.
• to be challenging and open-ended.

Children at Elmtree represent a wide variety of backgrounds, interests and aptitudes for maths. Consequently, our approach is to be inclusive for everyone and to create an environment where everyone can succeed. Children will gain a secure and deep understanding of mathematical concepts through manageable steps. We use mistakes and misconceptions as an essential part of learning and provide challenge through mastery challenges.