Maths

The mathematics curriculum at St. Clare’s aims to provide children with the ability to solve increasingly sophisticated routine and non-routine problems with confidence and accuracy. 

We aim to develop a fascination and passion for mathematics, where children are challenged to select, apply and explain their mathematical reasoning. 

We believe it is important for children to be able to recall fundamental facts rapidly and use these within more complex mental and written calculations. We aim to provide opportunities for problem solving within other curriculum areas so that the children’s mathematics is purposeful and enjoyable. St. Clare’s mathematics curriculum follows Lancashire’s Learning Excellence Mathematics plans, White Rose Scheme, National Centre for Excellence on the Teaching of Mathematics and Maths No Problem and is in line with the requirements of the National Curriculum.

It is sometimes necessary to adapt these plans to suit the needs, interests and abilities of our pupils so that each child progresses and enjoys success whilst experiencing the challenge, power and beauty of mathematics.

Times Tables

Each year, from year 2 through to year 6 have specific times tables they must learn:

• Year 2: x2, x5, x10, x3
• Year 3: x4, x8, x6
• Year 4: x7, x9, x11, x12
• Year 5 & 6 : further consolidation of all tables including ‘mega’ facts (6 x 80; 7 x 900; 400 x 6) and ‘mini’ facts (0.5 x 8; 3 x 0.03; 0.009 x 8)

For times tables we would advise you, as parents/ carers, spend a few weeks exploring one particular times table; look into any patterns; find things that are grouped by that amount (for example traffic lights in 3s; boxes of eggs in 6s; colours in a rainbow in 7s); practice the related division facts; depending on year group expectations, practice the ‘mini’ and ‘mega’ facts (7 x 4 and 0.7 x 4 (mini) and 70 x 4 (mega).

Multiplication Tables Check (MTC)

The multiplication tables check (MTC) is a digital assessment intended to support teachers in ensuring that all pupils know their multiplication tables by the end of primary school. It will enable schools to identify those pupils who may need more support with their times tables.

This academic year the MTC will be administered to year 4 pupils in June – the check will take most pupils no longer than 5 minutes to complete.

The Government have published a Multiplication tables check information video, which demonstrates which pupils and schools can expect. They have also published a leaflet for schools to share with parents.