At Burnt Oak Junior School, we believe that every child can succeed in mathematics. Our curriculum encourages children to develop confidence, curiosity and a positive attitude towards maths, recognising its importance in everyday life.

We want children to become independent, resilient mathematicians who enjoy exploring numbers, identifying patterns and solving problems. Through practical activities, discussion and challenge, children develop a secure understanding of mathematical concepts and learn to explain their thinking with confidence.

We have high expectations for all children and believe that developing a deep understanding of mathematics, rather than simply memorising procedures, is essential for long-term success.

Our Mathematics Curriculum – White Rose

At Burnt Oak Junior School, we follow the White Rose Maths Curriculum, which provides a carefully planned and sequenced approach to developing children's mathematical knowledge, understanding and skills.

Throughout Years 3 to 6, children build on their previous learning, revisiting important concepts and developing increasingly sophisticated mathematical thinking.

Our curriculum focuses on three key areas:

• Fluency – developing confidence and accuracy in recalling mathematical facts, understanding number relationships and applying efficient calculation strategies.

• Reasoning – encouraging children to explain their thinking, make connections, identify patterns and justify their answers using appropriate mathematical vocabulary.

• Problem-Solving – applying mathematical knowledge to a range of familiar and unfamiliar situations, exploring different approaches and persevering when faced with challenges.

We use a Concrete, Pictorial and Abstract (CPA) approach to help children develop a secure understanding of mathematical concepts.

Children begin by exploring ideas using practical resources, such as counters, place value equipment and other manipulatives. They then use pictures and diagrams to represent their understanding before moving towards more abstract mathematical methods and calculations.

This approach supports children in making connections, explaining their thinking and applying their knowledge confidently.

Teaching and Learning in Mathematics

Our mathematics lessons are designed to be engaging, challenging and accessible to all learners.

Teachers use White Rose Maths alongside carefully selected resources and activities to support children's understanding and provide opportunities for further challenge.

Children are encouraged to discuss their ideas, explain their methods and learn from mistakes. Mathematical vocabulary is explicitly taught and reinforced, helping children communicate their reasoning clearly and accurately.

We recognise that children learn at different rates and provide appropriate support and challenge to ensure everyone can make progress.

Mathematics is also explored across the wider curriculum, allowing children to apply their skills in meaningful contexts, including science, geography, computing and everyday problem-solving.

Times Tables and Number Fluency

At Burnt Oak Junior School, we recognise that secure knowledge of multiplication tables is an important foundation for mathematical success.

Quick and accurate recall of multiplication facts allows children to approach more complex calculations with confidence and concentrate on developing their reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Times tables are taught explicitly and practised regularly throughout Key Stage 2. Children revisit previously learned multiplication facts whilst developing their understanding of new tables and the relationships between them.

Our approach includes:

• Regular opportunities to practise and recall multiplication and division facts.

• Practical activities that help children understand multiplication patterns and relationships.

• Short, focused teaching sessions to develop accuracy and confidence.

• Opportunities to apply times tables knowledge in calculations, reasoning and problem-solving.

• Access to Times Tables Rock Stars (TTRS) to support practice both at school and at home.

In Year 4, children complete the statutory Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) in June. We prepare children through regular teaching and practice, helping them develop both confidence and fluency in recalling multiplication facts up to 12 × 12.

Our aim is for children to leave Burnt Oak Junior School as confident, capable and enthusiastic mathematicians who can think logically, explain their reasoning and apply their mathematical knowledge to a wide range of situations, both in school and beyond.