“Pure mathematics is, in its way, the poetry of logical ideas”
 Albert Einstein

INTENT

At Barnburgh Primary Academy, we aim to develop pupils who are confident, curious, and resilient mathematicians, with a deep understanding of how mathematics shapes the world around them. Teaching mathematics is vital as it underpins everyday life and equips our children with the skills needed to reason, problem-solve, and think logically. Through our mathematics curriculum, pupils develop a secure understanding of number, pattern, and structure, enabling them to make sense of the world and apply their learning across a range of contexts. Mathematics also fosters creativity, curiosity, and perseverance, encouraging children to explore ideas, make connections, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the subject. In doing so, we aim to inspire Truly Great mathematicians who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to succeed in education, employment, and everyday life.

We believe at Barnburgh that all children can master mathematics through the dedicated support and expertise of our staff. By fostering a culture where hard work and perseverance are valued, we ensure that every pupil is encouraged to succeed. Our teaching places a strong emphasis on revealing the structure of mathematics, helping children understand not only how to perform calculations, but also why mathematical concepts work. We recognise the importance of memorisation and regular practice of key facts, such as times tables and number bonds, as essential building blocks for mathematical fluency. Additionally, we teach children to use precise mathematical language consistently, supporting their ability to reason, communicate, and think confidently as mathematicians. All children are encouraged to develop and apply a broad range of mathematical skills, both within lessons and across the wider curriculum. Pupils are supported to recall known facts, reason logically, problem-solve, question effectively, and investigate mathematical ideas with curiosity. They are guided to become independent learners, confidently exploring possible solutions and selecting methods that best suit their thinking. Subject-specific vocabulary is explicitly taught and reinforced, enabling pupils to communicate their ideas with clarity and precision. Concepts are revisited and deepened as children progress through their mathematical journey, ensuring that they can draw on a variety of strategies and recall key knowledge to solve problems independently and confidently.

Our Core Values provide the platform on which we have built our curriculum offer at Barnburgh Primary Academy. Our Mathematics curriculum is underpinned by our Core Values in the following ways:

COURAGE : We teach our children to show courage in mathematics by encouraging them to explore new concepts, take risks, and share their mathematical thinking with confidence. Pupils are supported to question, investigate, and adopt a trial-and-error approach when solving problems, understanding that mistakes are an essential part of learning and mastery.

PERSEVERANCE: We teach our children perseverance in mathematics by guiding them to work through challenging problems and develop resilience when answers are not immediate. Through reasoning, practice, and reflection, pupils learn that success in mathematics requires dedication, effort, and the willingness to try different strategies.

AMBITION: We teach our children ambition in mathematics by encouraging them to aim high and continuously build on their prior knowledge. Pupils are motivated to deepen their understanding, develop rapid and accurate recall of key facts, and apply a range of mathematical methods confidently. We inspire them to push beyond what they believe is possible and achieve their full potential.

RESPECT: We teach our children respect in mathematics by valuing the ideas, methods, and achievements of others. Pupils learn to respect mathematical equipment, resources, and shared learning environments. They also develop an understanding of the importance of mathematics in everyday life and its role in future employment and financial literacy.

INDEPENDENCE: We teach our children independence in mathematics by enabling them to take ownership of their learning. Pupils are encouraged to select appropriate methods, recall and apply known facts, and explain their reasoning using precise mathematical language. This empowers them to become confident problem-solvers who can apply mathematics across the curriculum and in real-life situations.

Please find the maths progression document below. This is a working document.