What is Maths?

Maths is the study of numbers, patterns, shapes, and problem-solving, helping children to make sense of the world around them. It teaches vital skills such as counting, measuring, calculating, and understanding how things fit and work together.                                                                                                                                                                      At Vermont, our pupils explore five key areas of learning:    

• Number – Counting, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing
• Shape and Space – Recognising and working with shapes, directions, and positions  
• Measurement – Using time, money, length, weight, and capacity in real-life contexts
• Data and Statistics – Collecting and interpreting information through charts and graphs 
• Problem Solving – Using logic and reasoning to explore solutions and make decisions 

Maths is taught through a variety of approaches including hands-on activities, games, discussions, and practical, real-life situations. This helps pupils build confidence, curiosity, and enjoyment in their learning.

Why do we teach Maths?

Maths is a core life skill and plays a vital role in children's academic, emotional, and social development. Maths is used daily – in cooking, shopping, budgeting, travelling, and time management and it supports access to a wide range of future careers in fields such as science, technology, engineering, sport, and design. Most importantly, maths helps children become independent thinkers and problem-solvers, able to make good decisions and feel capable in their everyday lives.                                                                                                                                                       At Vermont, we teach maths to help pupils:   

• Build confidence – Understanding that mistakes are part of learning and that perseverance leads to progress
• Feel safe and secure – Through structured routines, clear patterns, and logical thinking        
• Exploring different strategies and sharing ideas in a supportive environment   
• Connect with the world – Seeing the relevance of maths in everyday life and future opportunities.

How we teach Maths at Vermont          

We want every child to enjoy maths and feel confident using it in everyday life. Maths is taught through fun, practical activities that encourage curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Children discover how maths connects to cooking, shopping, sport, art, nature, and future opportunities, helping them see why it matters. Our curriculum builds knowledge step by step, giving plenty of time for practice, reflection, and discussion. Every child is supported to learn at their own pace, with activities adapted to meet different needs. We also bring maths to life through games, challenges  and cross-curricular projects. Through maths, children develop more than just number skills – they grow in resilience, creativity, empathy, and confidence. They learn to listen to others, share ideas, and celebrate mistakes as part of learning.