MATHS
The primary aim of studying maths at GSSC is to develop pupils' mathematical knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems that are meaningful to them. It encourages logical thinking, reasoning, and the ability to understand and apply mathematical concepts.
At GSSC we follow an adapted structure of the White Rose Maths scheme. The White Rose Maths scheme is designed to help pupils develop a deep understanding of mathematical concepts and master the fundamentals in a structured (spiral) and progressive way. The ambitions of the White Rose scheme include:
- Mastery Approach: Ensuring that all pupils fully grasp a concept before moving on, promoting confidence and deeper understanding.
- Clear Progression: Building mathematical knowledge progressively from one year to the next, making sure pupils are ready for future challenges.
- Fluency, Reasoning, and Problem-Solving: Encouraging pupils not just to learn calculations but also to reason mathematically and apply their skills to solve complex problems.
- Visual and Practical Learning: Using visual aids and practical approaches, such as concrete manipulatives, to make abstract concepts more accessible.
To gain fluency in Maths, using the White Rose scheme, pupils are encouraged to practice key skills (e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication) repeatedly to build confidence and mastery. At GSSC this may look like; Detectives and Explorers exploring the pre-requisite skills of maths through continuous provision, Investigators learning through play, music and creativity. For our Researchers, they may practice these skills using technology and pictorial representations, developing their ability to understand and apply their knowledge.
We encourage pupils to gain problem solving skills through tangible problem-solving tasks, pupils learn to apply mathematical thinking to real-life scenarios, such as budgeting or measuring areas in practical settings. This would be particularly important for those moving into KS4 and KS5 accessing their curriculum alongside stage appropriate ‘life and living skills’ accreditation and preparing for adulthood or opportunities beyond GSSC.
Reasoning: Pupils are challenged to explain and justify their answers, developing their logical thinking and ability to communicate mathematically through a range of communication strategies. Pupils will access mathematical vocabulary through pictures, symbols and words plus access to communication grids, mats and high-tech AAC.
Pupils will join the scheme at the stage that is appropriate to them and strive to work their way through the scheme, developing knowledge and understanding at their own pace and spiralling back to ensure and embed understanding. For those that access daily individual programmes such as workstations or targeted intervention work – their tasks will be directly informed by their progress throughout the scheme and will reinforce their learning in lessons.