What is involved?
This programme focuses on the key mathematical knowledge and understanding needed in Reception, and progression through KS1. Lead Teachers in participating schools will receive training and will be part of an online community, to share practise and engage in critical reflection. Teaching materials will be provided, aimed at developing children’s fluency and flexibility with number.
New for 2026/27: Additional teaching resources have been created which will cover the whole of the maths curricilum for Reception.
Who can take part?
Lead participants from Work Group schools will be three teachers – one each from Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 – known as Lead Teachers. Schools can also nominate additional Reception teachers to join central and local workshops. Some support will also be given to subject leaders and headteachers. Where appropriate, Lead Teachers are expected to support the other teachers in their year group.
There are limited places so each Maths Hub will use set criteria to allocate spaces to this Work Group.
What are the benefits of the Mastering Number Programme?
- Your pupils will develop and demonstrate good number sense
- You will develop a secure understanding of how to build firm mathematical foundations
- You will work to develop teaching strategies focused on developing fluency in calculation and number sense for all children
- You will develop understanding and use of manipulatives to support your teaching of mathematical structures
What are the expectations?
- The school will introduce Mastering Number in all Reception classes, as the main maths lesson for all number work, and ensure that children are offered opportunities within the wider provision to embed their learning, including by using ideas suggested in the materials.
- Year 1 and Year 2 classes should use the Mastering Number materials in addition to their daily maths lesson (which could be shortened as a result of participation in this Work Group).
- Teachers will be expected to contribute regularly to an online community led by the Work Group Lead, reflecting on the implementation and impact of the programme, as well as attending locally-led sessions
- Participants in the project will engage in all online synchronous and asynchronous professional development, including three live sessions, throughout the academic year.
- Schools will need to ensure there is staff cover for a Lead Teacher from Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 to attend the equivalent of 3 days of training
- The school will provide any feedback required by the Maths Hub and participate in the evaluation processes required.
- At the end of the year, the school should consider how they will continue to engage with the maths hub.