Maths at Clarendon Infant School

At Clarendon Infant School, we want every child to become a confident mathematician who can use number skills and methods successfully in everyday life.

We aim to build strong foundations in maths so children develop a deep understanding of key concepts and can recall and apply their knowledge quickly and accurately. As pupils progress, they are supported to solve a wide range of problems — including unfamiliar and real-life situations — and to explain their thinking using clear mathematical language.

Our goal is for children to develop a genuine appreciation of number and number operations. This enables them to carry out mental and written calculations efficiently, fluently and accurately, preparing them well for future learning in mathematics.

How We Teach Maths

At Clarendon Infant School, we use a Mastery approach to teaching mathematics across the school.

This means we:

  • Spend longer exploring each concept in depth

  • Focus on understanding how and why methods work

  • Help children build secure knowledge step by step

We use the White Rose Scheme of Learning as guidance to support the order in which topics are taught, ensuring learning builds progressively over time.

Learning at the Right Pace

We carefully adapt the pace of learning to meet the needs of each class. Our approach ensures:

  • No child is left behind

  • Children who grasp concepts quickly are challenged more deeply

  • The focus remains on secure understanding rather than rushing ahead

Research shows that true mastery comes when children can:

  1. Understand a concept

  2. Apply it in different situations

  3. Use it creatively and confidently

For this reason, we prioritise depth of understanding over simply moving on to more advanced content.

Children usually work in mixed-ability groups so they can support and learn from one another. There is no obvious differentiation in lessons; instead, all pupils are given opportunities to access the full learning journey when they are ready.

Most children are taught the content for their year group, unless they need significant support to catch up. This helps them become secure and confident mathematicians.

Our Maths Learning Journey

In every unit, we follow a clear progression to help children fully understand mathematical concepts.

1. Concrete (hands-on learning)

Children use practical resources (manipulatives) to physically explore mathematical ideas.

2. Pictorial (visual learning)

They then move on to drawings and diagrams to represent their thinking.

3. Abstract (written methods)

Finally, children apply their understanding using numbers and formal written methods.

Throughout this process, pupils encounter a variety of question types, including:

  • Word problems

  • Diagrams and visual problems

  • Missing number challenges

Children are encouraged to explain their thinking using the A.P.E. approach:

  • Answer it

  • Prove it

  • Explain it

This helps deepen understanding and address misconceptions early.

Why Mastery Matters

In the past, moving too quickly through maths content sometimes left children with gaps in their knowledge. Our mastery approach ensures every child develops:

  • Secure mathematical understanding

  • Strong problem-solving skills

  • Confidence and resilience for the next stage of learning

As an infant school, we believe it is essential that children leave us with solid foundations — both academically and emotionally — ready for the challenges ahead.

Useful Information

Below you will find helpful links and resources to support maths learning at home.

Useful Websites