At Catshill Middle School, we believe that every child can be a mathematician. Through engaging, talk-rich lessons, we place a strong emphasis on oracy and reasoning, encouraging pupils to explain their thinking clearly and confidently using mathematical language. This helps them understand not only the how of maths but also the why.

Our approach nurtures pupils who are independent, collaborative, and resilient learners — unafraid to take risks and explore different ways to solve problems. By the end of Key Stage 2, we aim for every child to have secure mathematical foundations and an inquisitive mindset that makes them excited to tackle new challenges.

In line with the National Curriculum, our maths teaching helps pupils become fluent, confident, and enthusiastic learners. We ensure that every child builds strong foundations through regular practice and consolidation, learns to reason mathematically by explaining their ideas clearly, and can solve problems by applying their understanding in real contexts.

Each lesson begins with times tables and arithmetic practice to strengthen number fluency and boost confidence. This consistent routine helps pupils store key facts securely in their long-term memory, supporting success in more complex problem-solving later on.

We follow a Mastery Approach, using high-quality resources such as NCETM, NRich, Master the Curriculum, and White Rose Maths. Lessons are carefully designed to build on prior learning, develop fluency, and explore new ideas through rich, hands-on activities that challenge and inspire. Our aim is to ensure every pupil enjoys maths, sees its beauty and logic, and feels confident to take on new challenges with curiosity and enthusiasm.

New concepts are introduced using manipulatives and visual models, allowing pupils to explore ideas in a concrete, pictorial, and abstract way. This helps children truly understand what they are learning, building confidence and fluency as they progress.

Our maths curriculum doesn’t just teach numbers — it helps pupils become curious thinkers, confident problem-solvers, and lifelong learners who see the beauty and logic in mathematics.