At Tornedale Infant Academy, we aim to develop confident, curious, and capable young mathematicians from the very start of their learning journey. Our maths curriculum begins in Nursery and continues through to the end of Key Stage 1, building strong foundations in number, shape, space, and measures.

We use the White Rose Maths (WRM) scheme as a platform to support our planning, but our skilled teachers carefully tailor the learning to meet the specific needs of our children. We understand what each child needs and adapt lessons to ensure all learners are supported, challenged, and inspired. Children learn best through meaningful, engaging experiences, so we design our teaching to ensure maths is accessible, enjoyable, and relevant.

Our approach follows the principles of teaching for mastery, ensuring that all children develop a deep and secure understanding of mathematical concepts, rather than rushing through content. Learning is carefully sequenced, with time built in for exploration, consolidation, and plenty of opportunities to revisit and apply key skills. We believe that all children can achieve highly in maths with the right support and opportunities. Through practical activities, visual representations, and structured practice, we help children develop fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

We value the importance of concrete, pictorial, and abstract representations to support understanding and ensure all learners can access the curriculum at every stage. Children are encouraged to explore and enjoy maths in a safe, supportive environment where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities.

From Nursery to Year 2, our curriculum is designed to bring maths to life by:

• Building strong number sense, so children understand how numbers work and relate to each other
• Developing a deep and secure understanding of key concepts before moving on
• Learning through stories, rhymes, and songs, helping children connect mathematical ideas in fun and memorable ways
• Placing a strong emphasis on vocabulary and oracy, encouraging children to talk about their thinking, explain their reasoning, and use mathematical language confidently
• Supporting fluency, reasoning, and problem-solving in an age-appropriate and engaging way
• Providing practical, hands-on experiences that help embed core skills
• Making full use of our amazing outdoor areas whenever possible, offering opportunities to explore mathematical concepts in real-life, active, and creative ways
• Challenging all learners, including providing opportunities for deeper thinking for those who grasp concepts quickly
• Fostering confidence and enjoyment, making maths a positive and rewarding part of school life

By the end of Key Stage 1, our goal is for every child to leave Tornedale with:

• Strong mathematical foundations
• Confidence in their abilities
• A positive attitude towards maths
• A love of learning that they will carry into the next stage of their education

At Tornedale, we are proud to nurture mathematicians who are not only capable, but also curious and resilient—ready to thrive in a world full of numbers.