Curriculum Intent

Maths

Our children will be…Problem Solvers

 “Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations or algorithms: it is about understanding.”- William Paul Thurston.

Maths is a language that enables us to access our world and understand how it works. This language crosses borders and is universal in our continually changing world. It enables us to complete daily tasks and to make sensible decisions- even down to what yoghurt is best value! Mathematics also offers children a powerful way of communicating. They learn to explore and explain their ideas using symbols, diagrams as well as the spoken and written language. Studying mathematics stimulates curiosity, fosters creativity and equips children with the skills they need in life beyond school.

Much of mathematics as we know it today has developed in response to solving practical challenges in science and technology, in the social sciences and in economics. So, as well as being a subject in its own right, with its own patterns, principles and procedures, mathematics is a subject that can be applied- particularly when solving problems. It is for this reason that we understand how important the teaching of mathematics is. It is of course vital that children have a deep understanding of key mathematical principles to enable them to effectively solve problems. If this is secure, children are able to generalise, reason, visualise and solve problems in a variety of contexts. These skills will support our children as they go out into the world as adults- supporting their career and opportunities.

Maths is such a vital subject that truly equips our children to be successful in later life. In Sacred Heart, maths is taught (using Maths No Problem) through relevant and well-researched problems that links to the children's’ experiences. This is a well researched programme with clear principles that support children to become confident problem solvers and mathematicians.

As Tolstoy once quoted it is said, “that true pleasure lies not in the discovery of truth, but in the search for it."