Maths

 

At The Altus School, the Mathematics curriculum is designed to help all pupils feel successful, confident, and capable in mathematics. Many pupils arrive with gaps in their prior learning and low confidence, so our curriculum prioritises secure understanding, clear structure, and positive learning experiences.

 

Mathematics is carefully sequenced to build knowledge in small, manageable steps, allowing pupils to revisit and strengthen key ideas over time. Our aim is for pupils to develop the essential mathematical skills they need for everyday life, while building resilience and a more positive attitude towards learning maths.

 

 

 

 

Mathematics is taught using a mastery approach, with an emphasis on clarity, repetition, and reassurance. Lessons begin by revisiting prior learning and then introduce new concepts gradually. Teachers model methods clearly and provide guided practice before pupils work independently, ensuring pupils feel supported and confident before moving on.

 

 

Assessment is used to identify gaps and inform support, rather than to create pressure. Teachers regularly check understanding through questioning, observation, and independent work. Clear success criteria are shared in each lesson so pupils know what is expected and can recognise their own progress.

Feedback is specific, supportive, and focused on effort and improvement. Assessment outcomes are used to plan interventions, revisit concepts, and provide additional help where needed.

 

 

Teachers use manipulatives, diagrams, and visual models to make mathematics more accessible and easier to understand. Concepts are explained using concrete and pictorial representations before moving to formal methods, helping pupils make sense of new learning and build confidence.

Links between mathematical facts, concepts, and procedures are made explicit so pupils understand how ideas connect.

 

 

All mathematics lessons are planned to support pupils with a wide range of needs and abilities. Tasks are designed to be accessible to all, with opportunities for challenge built in. Pupils are encouraged to discuss their thinking, work collaboratively, and learn from mistakes in a safe and supportive environment.

Teachers carefully scaffold independent work and provide encouragement to help reluctant learners engage and experience success.

 

 

Problem solving is taught through modelled examples, shared thinking, and structured discussion. Teachers demonstrate different approaches and support pupils in explaining their ideas. Pupils are encouraged to check their answers and reflect on their methods, helping them develop independence and confidence over time.

 

 

 

The mathematics curriculum is coherently sequenced across the academic year to ensure progression and revisit key concepts regularly.

 

Key Stage 3 focuses on developing secure foundations in:

Key Stage 4 builds on this foundation, preparing pupils for GCSE and Functional Skills qualifications through:

Topics are revisited across terms to strengthen retention, deepen understanding and build confidence.

 

 

Through a supportive and structured mathematics curriculum, pupils develop greater confidence, improved understanding, and a more positive relationship with maths. They leave The Altus School better equipped to use mathematics in everyday situations and with increased belief in their own ability to learn and succeed.