Stephen William Hawking. Yolanda Sonnabend (1935–2015). 
National Portrait Gallery, London.

 'Without mathematics, there’s nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers'

     Shakuntala Devi

Maths Intent
Maths at Oakley Vale looks to develop children to have confidence in Mathematics and an understanding that they can apply it to the world around them. We look to develop children that are fluent in the fundamentals, can reason mathematically and can solve problems by applying their understanding confidently. As children progress, we intend for them to be able to understand the world of maths, have an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject. 

We teach Maths through a mastery approach which enables children to acquire a deep, long term, secure and adaptable understanding of maths. We follow the White Rose scheme of learning from EYFS to Year 6. 

Areas of maths are broken down into small connected steps that gradually unfold the concept. Working with smaller steps means it is easier for children to follow and also misconceptions to be corrected and addressed before moving on. This enables all children to access more and leads to them having the ability to apply the concept to a range of contexts. Our mathematics curriculum is designed to be accessible to all.

Mathematics is essential for everyday life, understanding of our world and offers children a powerful way of communicating. They learn to explore and explain their ideas using symbols, diagrams and spoken and written language. Studying mathematics stimulates curiosity, fosters creativity and equips children with the skills they need in life beyond school.

We believe every child can become a numerate adult – with skilful teaching in school and encouragement at home and our maths curriculum intent and implementation ensures every child is encouraged, scaffolded and challenged to ensure they develop a deep understanding of mathematics during their time at Oakley Vale.