Here at Edge Hill Junior Academy, we use a mastery approach for maths.  Our aim is to teach children to see the relationships between numbers and other mathematical areas so that they have a deep understanding of the subject, avoiding a formulaic, procedural approach to maths.

The aim of this page is to give visitors an insight into the visual models and language that we use in school.  Some will be very simple models that show small numbers but then can be used with larger numbers and more complex problems to help children understand. Some of the examples will be familiar as traditional methods that have been taught for many years.

During maths lessons at Edge Hill Academy, visitors will see children engaging enthusiastically with their maths learning, showing stamina, resilience and perseverance even when the learning is challenging.  Visitors will hear children discussing their learning in pairs, small groups or as a whole-class using correct vocabulary and reasoning explanations. 

Visitors will see children being able to model their thinking in different ways including using formal methods or manipulatives and representations or any other support where appropriate.  They will also see clear, correct recording in books with feedback that supports children to be accurate with answers, methods and vocabulary. 

At the end of each lesson, children will have made progress against the Learning Outcome (small step) either independently, following carefully planned input from the teacher, or with support as identified by the child or an adult in the lesson.  If the progress and attainment is limited, intervention will be put in place in a timely manner in order for all children to keep up with the maths learning.  Displays in the room and around the school will further support the learning of maths.  Overall, visitors will see teaching staff willing to embrace a mastery approach, developing our understanding and expertise collaboratively through discussion, practice, colleague support and review.