Maths Curriculum Design at Hugo Meynell

Intent

At Hugo Meynell, we aim to ensure that every child develops a deep, secure, and connected understanding of mathematics. Building on the National Curriculum, we follow the NCETM Mastery approach, which focuses on small, coherent steps to develop fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

We believe that mathematics equips children with powerful tools to calculate, reason, and solve problems, enabling them to understand and appreciate patterns and relationships in number, space, and the wider world.

Our intent is for pupils to:

• Demonstrate resilience and a positive attitude towards maths.
• Develop competence and confidence with numbers and concepts.
• Apply logical thinking and a range of strategies to solve problems.
• Work collaboratively and independently with confidence

Implementation

Our teaching is underpinned by the NCETM Mastery Curriculum, ensuring lessons follow the mastery principles of concrete–pictorial–abstract representation so that concepts are deeply understood before moving on.

We adapt planning based on formative assessment and revisit key concepts where needed. To further support learning, we use Oak National Academy resources for targeted intervention and home learning, ensuring all pupils have access to high-quality materials.

Additional enrichment and challenge are provided through resources such as NRich, and maths is embedded across the wider curriculum where real-life applications exist (e.g., measuring in Geography).

In EYFS, we use the NCETM Mastering Number programme to secure firm foundations in number sense. This approach focuses on:

• Cardinality – understanding that the last number in a count represents the quantity of the set.
• Composition – recognising that numbers can be made up of other numbers (e.g., 5 is 2 and 3).
• Comparison – developing the ability to compare quantities and numbers.
• Subitising – quickly recognising quantities without counting.
• Pattern – noticing and using patterns to support understanding of number relationships.

Maths in EYFS is taught through play, stories, rhymes, and everyday experiences, ensuring children develop confidence and flexibility with numbers from the very start of our children's journey in Nursery.

Impact

Our children leave Hugo Meynell fluent, confident, and resilient mathematicians. They can reason, solve problems, and apply their skills to real-life situations. By the time they transition to secondary school, pupils have a secure foundation for future learning and a positive attitude towards mathematics.

Mathematics at Hugo Meynell Primary School

At Hugo Meynell, we follow the NCETM Mastery Curriculum to ensure every child develops a deep and secure understanding of mathematics. Our approach focuses on fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving, enabling pupils to build strong foundations and apply their knowledge confidently in a variety of contexts.

We believe that every child can succeed in maths. Lessons are carefully structured to promote small, connected steps in learning, with plenty of opportunities for discussion and exploration. This mastery approach helps pupils to think mathematically, make connections, and develop resilience when tackling challenges.

To support and extend learning, we also use Oak National Academy resources, providing additional practice and guidance for pupils who need extra support or wish to consolidate their understanding at home. These resources complement our classroom teaching and ensure that all learners have access to high-quality materials.

Our aim is to foster a love of mathematics and equip pupils with the skills they need for life-long learning.

Mastering Number Programme

In KS1, Hugo Meynell Primary School has been selected to take part in the National for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) project to support the teaching of early maths skills in our school. This project will take place from September 2025 and aims to secure firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2. The aim over time is that children will leave KS1 with fluency in calculation and a confidence and flexibility with number. Attention will be given to key knowledge and understanding needed in Reception classes, and progression through KS1 to support success in the future.

In Reception, children have a 10 to 15 minute Mastering Number session, 4 times a week with an adult, as well as having access to various continuous provision maths activities throughout the week. In KS1, children have a daily 10-15 Mastering Number session in addition to their usual Maths lesson. Over the year, the children will experience using a range of resources and representations, including a small abacus-like piece of equipment called a rekenrek.

Maths - Parent home support