In Early Years, the children explore Mathematics in many different contexts, including songs, books, puzzles and games using a variety of resources and representations. Key mathematical skills are developed and implemented through planned, purposeful activities with a mixture of adult-led, child-initiated and continuous provision activities. Teachers introduce precise mathematical language and rehearse stem sentences.
Our Reception children learn how to spot patterns in numbers up to 10; how to subitise (when you are able to look at a group); how to compare groups of objects, developing a sense of magnitude and how to count beyond 20. They develop a deeper understanding of numbers to 10, the relationships between them patterns within numbers, recalling number facts, including doubles within 10.
Learning within EYFS at Our Lady of Lourdes is guided by the requirements and recommendations set out in the Statutory Framework for EYFS (September 2021), which underpin the curriculum planning for Reception. The children are given opportunities to develop their mathematical skills and knowledge both through teaching and environmental exploration. Teachers plan intentional tasks which are embedded in practical activities and focus on mathematical ‘noticing’ using key representations. Language is reinforced through the use of gestures and children are encouraged to practise visualisation.
EYFS may also use some of the resources from the NCETM Support Materials and from the Schemes of Learning from White Rose Maths which underpins the new DfE Maths Curriculum guidance from July 2021, in our continuous learning provision and learning environment.
In both 2021-22 and 22-23, we were excited to be involved in the NCETM Mastering Number national project, which aims to secure firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2. These sessions, which are in addition to the daily maths lessons based on White Rose, have been so successful in promoting the children’s number fluency, that we will be continuing them next year. Combined with the opportunities provided for EYFS children to develop their understanding of shape, measures and spatial awareness, our Reception children are exposed to a rich and varied maths curriculum.
The ELGs are used as an end of year assessment within number and numerical patterns. Children explore their understanding of cardinality and counting, comparison, composition, pattern, shape and space and measures. Teachers do this through skilful planning of a variety of activities that enable the children to enjoy, explore, practice and talk confidently about mathematics.
We want our EYFS children to develop a love of mathematics, with the ability to see links between other areas of maths and prior learning and real life.
Pupil voice “I like singing the number bonds song. My brother is 6 and that is in the numbers bond song … 6 and 4!”
