Numeracy and Mathematics at Greenhills

Building skills for learning, life and work

Numeracy and mathematics help children to understand the world, solve problems and make decisions. Research from the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) shows that strong maths skills are closely linked to future employment, financial security, health and confidence.

At Greenhills, we see numeracy as a life skill. We work together with families so children can use maths confidently at school and at home.

🔢 Our approach

We deliver numeracy and mathematics through a clear, structured and inclusive pathway that supports every learner.

• a consistent programme from early years to P7

• small steps in learning to build deep understanding

• a focus on number, mental maths and problem solving

• regular opportunities to talk about mathematical thinking

• inclusive approaches for all learners
  
  

This helps children develop confidence, accuracy and independence.

🧠 Developing number sense

A strong understanding of number is the foundation for all maths.

Children learn to:

• count forwards and backwards

• understand quantity and place value

• recognise number patterns

• recall key number facts
  
  

Evidence shows that secure number sense in the early years is critical for later success in maths.

➕ Mental maths and fluency

We teach children to calculate efficiently and accurately.

This includes:

• number bonds

• times tables

• mental calculation strategies

• quick recall of key facts
  
  

Fluency frees up children’s thinking so they can focus on solving problems.

🔍 Problem solving and reasoning

Mathematics is about thinking, not just getting answers.

Children are taught to:

• explain their thinking

• choose strategies

• solve real-life problems

• check if their answers make sense
  
  

Research highlights that discussing and explaining mathematical ideas has a high impact on progress.

🗣️ Talking about maths

We give children regular opportunities to talk about their learning.

They learn to:

• use mathematical language

• describe how they solved a problem

• compare different strategies

• learn from mistakes
  
  

This builds confidence and deepens understanding.

📏 Beyond number – the wider maths curriculum

Children also learn about:

• shape, position and movement

• measure (length, weight, time, money)

• information handling and data
  
  

We make clear links to real-life contexts so that learning is meaningful and relevant.

🌈 Inclusive for all

Inclusion is central to our maths curriculum.

Our approaches include:

• concrete materials and visual supports

• structured and repetitive teaching

• real-life contexts and practical activities

• communication-friendly learning environments
  
  

This allows every child to access learning and experience success.

How parents and families can help at home

🔢 Practise number in everyday life

Maths is everywhere.

You can:

• count steps, cars or items in the shop

• talk about house numbers and bus numbers

• spot numbers in the environment
  
  

💰 Use real-life maths

Involve your child in:

• handling money

• measuring when cooking

• telling the time

• sharing food into equal parts
  
  

This helps them see the purpose of maths.

🗣️ Talk about how you solve problems

Explain your thinking when you:

• work out a total in the shop

• plan a journey

• compare prices
  
  

This shows children that maths is about thinking and reasoning.

🎲 Play games

Games help develop quick recall and strategy.

Try:

• board games with dice or numbers

• card games

• number apps recommended by the school
  
  

⏱️ Practise key facts little and often

Short, regular practice of number bonds and times tables makes a big difference.

🤝 Work in partnership with us

If you are unsure how to help, we will:

• share methods and strategies

• provide support materials

• offer guidance
  
  

Together, we can help every child develop confidence and success in numeracy and mathematics.