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Philosophy for Teaching Maths
Mastering Number
At St Stephen's, we believe that a secure understanding of number is the foundation upon which all mathematical learning is built. Children who develop strong number sense are able to recognise patterns, make connections and approach mathematics with confidence and curiosity. By nurturing fluency through deep understanding rather than memorisation alone, we help children develop flexible mathematical thinking that supports reasoning, problem solving and future success in mathematics.
Multiplication Fluency
At St Stephen's, we believe that fluency in multiplication and division facts is essential for children to become confident and efficient mathematicians. When key facts are known and understood, children are freed to focus their thinking on more complex mathematical concepts and problem solving. We value regular practice that develops automatic recall alongside conceptual understanding, enabling children to make connections, spot patterns and apply their knowledge with increasing confidence and independence.
Together with our Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract approach, these principles reflect our belief that mathematical understanding and fluency grow hand in hand, empowering every child to think, reason and succeed as a mathematician.
If you feel your child is confident in the methods shown in the videos for their year group and you want to move them on, please speak to their teacher rather than introducing a method from the next year group. We want to ensure your child has a really secure understanding of the maths involved, and is able to adapt and apply this understanding in order to deepen it and your child's teacher will be able to support you with how best to achieve this.
