Developing Deep Mathematical Understanding

At Copthorne Prep, maths teaching is rooted in well-established research showing that children learn most effectively when they first explore concepts in a concrete way, then represent their understanding pictorially, and only later move on to the abstract. This approach ensures deep, secure understanding rather than superficial knowledge. You will see this brought to life differently across the year groups. In the lower years, great emphasis is placed on hands-on learning, with children using a wide range of apparatus to build confidence and fluency before recording their ideas more formally. In Year 1, for example, pupils are having tremendous fun while developing their understanding of number composition, exploring how numbers can be made in different ways through practical activities and discussion. This strong foundation supports children as they progress to more complex mathematical thinking in later years.