In Tong School we endorse the 5-14 Mathematics National Guidelines Documents issued by SOED in August 1991. We endeavour to implement the outcomes and strands therein contained by developing, at all stages, a variety of appropriate teaching and learning approaches conducive to the mathematical education of all our pupils whatever their abilities.

The school uses Heinemann Maths as a core scheme at all stages. This scheme is supplemented by a variety of other materials in order to create opportunities for consolidation and further practice. These include other texts, such as TeeJay Publication, Speedcount, Peter Patillo, Mental Maths, computer disks, games and teacher-produced worksheets.

The Teacher’s Notes in the Heinemann scheme provide a range of practical activities, specific teaching points and suggested resources to support the teaching programme. Teachers are encouraged to link maths to other areas of the curriculum where this is felt to be beneficial and relevant. Progression through attainment targets is organised according to pupils’ abilities. The programmes of study at each stage make allowances for the pace of learning. The need for differentiation is recognised for pupils within classes at different levels of attainment. Children with learning difficulties receive extra help from the learning support teacher when these difficulties have been identified.

Activities designed to encourage oral and mental maths are a regular feature of classroom practice. The use of the computer as an aid to teaching and learning is integrated into the maths programme.

In order to develop the necessary skills, attitudes and confidence, pupils have access to a range of appropriate resources and materials. An audit of textual and practical resources for each stage is appended to this document. Additional software resources have been bought to further enhance learning in this area of the curriculum. Purchase of resources is on-going as finance dictates.

The principle used for Assessment and Recording reflects those set out within the 5-14 Assessment and Recording National Guidelines. Assessment and Recording are an integral part of the Heinemann Maths Scheme, with teachers at each stage using the Assessment and Recording Pack provided with the scheme. Assessment and Recording is an on-going, continuous and flexible process in the school, used to provide guidance for the next step of the learning process. In addition to the New Heinemann Assessment and Recording Pack information gathered through assessment is recorded by the class teacher.