Within Reception and Key Stage One (KS1) classes The Mastering Number (or Teaching for Mastery) approach is used, which is designed to ensure that children develop a deep, long-term, and adaptable understanding of mathematics. Rather than just memorising procedures, the goal is for pupils to acquire a "sense of number" that allows them to solve problems flexibly.

The Core Principles of Mastery are built on five big ideas developed by the NCETM (National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics):

1. Coherence: Lessons are broken down into small, manageable steps.
2. Representation & Structure: The use of physical objects and drawings to "see" the math.
3. Mathematical Thinking: Encouraging children to explain why an answer is correct.
4. Fluency: Developing a quick recall of facts (like number bonds).
5. Variation: Presenting the same concept in different ways to avoid "rote" learning.

The teaching Mathematics in Key Stage Two (KS2) is all about moving from the concrete foundations of younger pupils to the abstract reasoning required for secondary education. For children aged 7 to 11 (Years 3 through 6), the goal is to build fluency, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving skills.