Intent
Mathematics powers the art of reasoning, critical thinking and logic. As Einstein once said, it is ‘the poetry of logical ideas’. It is our desire that through our mathematics curriculum children at Thomas Jones become fluent in mathematics, and are able both to solve problems and to reason mathematically. Mathematics provides a foundation for understanding the world and giving children the ability to think in abstract ways. We strongly believe it is vital that our children are equipped with the tools and knowledge to succeed in life. Therefore, mathematics forms an integral and daily part of the Thomas Jones curriculum. We encourage children to be confident, inquisitive and to challenge themselves through child-led investigations and problems.
Since 2019 we have been following a mastery curriculum. Promoted by mathematics professionals and the Department for Education since 2015, this is largely based around employing approaches that help children to develop a deep and secure knowledge and understanding of mathematics so that by the end of each year they have acquired mastery of mathematical facts and concepts they have been taught[1].
The mastery approach, as well as the National Curriculum, places emphasis on children becoming fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics so they can rapidly recall facts and answer problems. Fluency forms a core part of mathematics teaching at Thomas Jones and features in every lesson, to ensure that children are best equipped to succeed at mathematics when they move on from Thomas Jones.
[1] https://schoolsweek.co.uk/what-is-teaching-for-mastery-in-maths/