From September 2014 a new maths curriculum was introduced. At Queen’s Park Primary School we have introduced the Primary Advantage Maths Program which was developed by a group of teachers from Primary Advantage schools. It is rooted in current research into best practice in mathematics teaching and is closely linked to the world renowned Singapore method (click here for more information). The Singapore method of teaching mathematics develops pupils' mathematical ability and confidence without having to resort to memorising procedures to pass tests - making mathematics more engaging and interesting. Ofsted, the National Centre for Teaching Mathematics (NCETM), the Department for Education, and the National Curriculum Review Committee have all emphasised the pedagogy and heuristics used by Singapore.

Features of Singapore Maths

• Emphasis on problem solving and comprehension, allowing students to relate what they learn and to connect knowledge
• Careful scaffolding of core competencies of:
  • Visualisation, as a platform for comprehension
  • Mental strategies, to develop decision making abilities
  • Pattern recognition, to support the ability to make connections and generalise
• Emphasis on the foundations for learning and not on the content itself so students learn to think mathematically as opposed to merely reciting formulas or procedures