Mathematics
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Introduction
At Tewin Cowper Primary School, we believe that mathematics equips children with powerful tools to understand and make sense of the world around them. Guided by our school motto Believe • Grow • Succeed, and inspired by the vision of the mustard seed, we nurture small steps in learning so that every child can grow in confidence and succeed in mathematics.
We teach maths using Essential Maths, a mastery-based approach that supports deep understanding, confidence and enjoyment. Lessons are carefully structured into small steps, ensuring children build secure foundations and make strong connections in their learning.
What does maths look like in school?
Mathematics lessons across the school are engaging, structured and consistent. Children explore new ideas using practical resources, represent their thinking through drawings and models, and apply their understanding using numbers and symbols. Photos on our website show this learning journey in action.
Our approach focusses on helping children understand why maths works, not just how to find an answer. This encourages curiosity, discussion and confidence, and helps children apply their learning in a range of contexts.
How children develop mathematical understanding
Maths learning is built around three key areas:
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Fluency – developing confidence and accuracy with number and calculation through regular practice.
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Reasoning – encouraging children to explain their thinking, identify patterns and use mathematical language.
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Problem solving – applying maths to a range of situations, breaking problems into manageable steps and persevering when challenges arise.
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Learning step by step
Teaching follows the Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract (CPA) approach. Children may begin by using practical equipment, move on to drawing representations, and then work with numbers and symbols. This ensures learning is accessible and meaningful for all pupils.
Showing understanding
Lessons include destination questions, which allow children to demonstrate their understanding of a specific concept. These questions encourage children to explain their thinking and apply what they have learned, helping teachers support progress and challenge pupils appropriately.
By nurturing understanding step by step, we help children believe in themselves, grow in confidence and succeed as mathematicians.