Our school and curriculum empower pupils to be advocates and agents of change for a more sustainable world. 

Intent 

At Drake Primary School, our goal is for children to leave as confident, skilled, and resilient mathematicians who understand that mathematics is a fundamental part of everyday life and the world we live in. 

 

Implementation 

We follow the ARK Mathematics Mastery (MM) programme across the school, which is a knowledge-rich, academically ambitious and logically sequenced curriculum designed to support memory. The programme is built on solid, evidence-led pedagogical principles – the Dimensions of Depth – and promotes oracy in a flexible and fun way, making mathematical success accessible to everyone.

In Reception, children begin developing the foundations of mathematics through a balance of planned adult-led activities and child-initiated exploration. The MM programme supports early mathematical understanding by focusing on key concepts such as pattern, number sense, and spatial reasoning — ensuring that children are well-prepared for the transition into Year 1.

In Key Stages 1 and 2, mathematics is taught daily using a six-part lesson structure. Assessment for learning opportunities are threaded throughout, constantly building upon what pupils are learning at every stage in the lesson.

Mathematics is delivered through mixed-ability, whole-class teaching, with all pupils accessing the same content, supported by scaffolding where necessary. A strong emphasis is placed on mathematical reasoning, with pupils encouraged to explain, justify, and prove their thinking through structured discussion and carefully planned questioning. A CPA (Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract) approach is used consistently to support children's progression in understanding.

In Drake’s SRB, children’s needs are met through learning programmes tailored to individual learning profiles. Where maths is a particular strength, children follow the MM sequence alongside their peers. For those working below National Curriculum expectations, learning focuses on smaller, carefully structured steps. Practical, hands-on experiences are prioritised, using concrete and pictorial resources in line with whole-school teaching approaches.

Once a term, children complete an NFER summative assessment, apart from Year 6, where past KS2 SATs papers are used. These assessments are analysed by teachers to identify learning gaps, and by the maths lead to monitor progress, spot trends, and ensure that all pupils' needs are being met effectively.

The quality of teaching is monitored through regular book looks and learning walks conducted by the maths lead and SLT to ensure consistency and high standards across the school.

Finally, we recognise that mathematics doesn't only happen in maths lessons. Cross-curricular mathematical opportunities are embedded throughout the wider Drake curriculum, helping pupils to see the relevance and application of mathematics in everyday contexts.

 

Impact 

As a result of our teaching at Drake, you will see: 

• Engaged children who are challenged. 
• Confident children who can talk about maths, their learning, and the links between mathematical topics. 
• Lessons that use a variety of resources to support learning. 
• Multiple representations of mathematical concepts. 
• Learning that is tracked and monitored to ensure all children make at least good progress from their starting points. 
• Children who have the necessary skills for the next stage of their education. 

Maths at Drake