“Mathematics is not about numbers, equations or algorithms: it is about understanding.” — William Paul Thurston
Mathematics at Sunnyside Academy
At Sunnyside Academy, we believe that a high-quality mathematics education helps children understand the world around them and gives them the confidence and skills they need for everyday life. Our aim is for all pupils to become fluent in the fundamentals of mathematics, to develop a strong understanding of key concepts and to be able to apply their knowledge to solve problems with confidence and resilience.
As children move through the school, they build on what they already know, developing secure mathematical understanding alongside the ability to recall facts quickly and accurately. We place a strong emphasis on reasoning and problem solving, encouraging pupils to explain their thinking, make connections across different areas of mathematics and apply their skills in a range of contexts, including links to other curriculum subjects. Children are supported to develop perseverance and confidence, learning that challenge and mistakes are an important part of learning mathematics.
All children receive daily mathematics lessons that include opportunities to practise fluency, reasoning and problem solving. Lessons often begin with short retrieval activities to reinforce previous learning and help children remember key facts and methods. Regular counting and number work supports children in developing strong number sense and, in Years 1 to 5, pupils also take part in a daily Mastery at Number session to strengthen their understanding of number.
Teaching follows the National Curriculum and is carefully sequenced to ensure clear progression. Teachers use a range of high-quality resources and approaches to support learning, including practical equipment (such as counters and number lines) and visual representations which help children to understand concepts deeply before moving on to more abstract methods. Lessons are adapted to meet the needs of all learners, with appropriate support or challenge provided so that every child can succeed.
Children are taught to use a range of strategies, including mental methods and formal written calculations and are encouraged to choose the most efficient approach for each problem. Times tables are taught and practised regularly with children working towards a series of awards to celebrate their progress and achievements.
Assessment and support
Teachers regularly assess pupils’ understanding through classwork, discussions and quizzes, as well as termly assessments. This information is used to identify strengths, address any gaps and plan next steps. Where needed, additional support or targeted teaching is provided to help children build confidence and secure understanding before moving on.
Support staff work closely with teachers during lessons, helping pupils to develop independence rather than providing answers and supporting children across a range of ability levels. Mathematical language is modelled and reinforced so that pupils can talk confidently about their learning.
Children are encouraged to take pride in their work and to present it clearly. Teachers and pupils review work together, with time given for children to reflect on feedback and correct any misunderstandings. This helps pupils to understand their mistakes and learn from them, supporting steady progress over time.
Through our mathematics curriculum, we aim for all children to leave Sunnyside Academy as confident, resilient learners who enjoy mathematics and are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
Maths Progression Map
Maths Vocabulary Progression