This work group aims to help primary teachers improve their knowledge of primary mathematics content (subject knowledge) with a particular emphasis on mathematical structures in key areas. Teachers will also develop their understanding of the background pedagogy (how children learn the maths) so that their teaching can be more effective. Approaches explored during the work group will be consistent with teaching for mastery. It will contribute to a national project, with participation across the Maths Hubs Network in England, which aims to refine and perfect an SKE improvement model that maximises effective teaching.

Who will be leading the group?

Cathryn Hardy

Cathryn is Teaching for Mastery Lead for Salop & Herefordshire Maths Hub. Cathryn is Primary mathematics adviser for Shropshire and also co-author and lecturer for post-graduate mathematics education programmes for Edge Hill University.

Who is it for?

For Y5 and Y6 teachers who wish to enhance their own maths subject knowledge.  There will be a focus on developing 'Teaching for Mastery' approaches and the 'five big ideas'.  Consequently, teachers involved in the 'Teaching for Mastery' work groups, this year or last, should find these sessions particularly useful.

What are the intended outcomes?

• Teachers will develop a greater awareness of how pupils learn and how teaching should best align accordingly.  They will gain a deeper understanding of the principles underpinning teaching for mastery, and a belief that all children can succeed.
• Teachers will demonstrate elements of changed classroom practice and be able to design lessons that include better questioning and more opportunities for mathematical talk. As a result, school lesson planning formats and calculation policies are more likely to align coherently with teaching for mastery.
• Pupils will benefit from increased opportunities to explore concepts in more depth, and to develop a greater understanding of the connections in mathematics. They will be more confident in their mathematics and be able to explain their reasoning using appropriate language. Enjoyment and motivation to succeed will be seen in the classroom.
• An ambition is to have professional learning processes embedded in the schools. There should be a sustainable PD cycle for teachers that is more school-based and less reliant on courses.

What will it involve?

Participation in two one-day workshops and completion of a gap task between the workshops.

What is the cost?

Free

Cover costs of up to £180 per day will be paid for teachers in their first two years of teaching.