Mathematics
Maths at Sacred Heart
Strengthening Problem Solving at Sacred Heart
We have been very fortunate to welcome Brenden Lee, who is widely recognised as a leading voice and respected figure in mathematics education, to Sacred Heart over the past fortnight.
Brenden led two highly valuable staff professional learning sessions, sharing his deep expertise and passion for strengthening mathematical understanding in schools. He guided staff through the science behind how students learn, with a particular focus on the essential skill progression that enables learners to confidently tackle worded problems. This progression is vital in helping students access the world of problem solving with clarity, confidence, and independence.
Across both sessions, staff explored a wide range of mathematical terms, concepts, and instructional practices that support strong learning foundations. Brenden’s knowledge and experience have also greatly influenced our planning for 2026, particularly as we continue to develop and refine our whole-school approach to problem solving.
We are extremely grateful for Brenden’s expertise and the significant impact his work will have on teaching and learning at Sacred Heart moving forward.
PR1ME at Sacred Heart
We are delighted to share that Year 2 and Year 4 will be implementing PR1ME Maths in 2026. This program provides a clear scope and sequence, high-quality resources, and meaningful assessment opportunities designed to strengthen students’ knowledge and skills.
As we introduce PR1ME Maths to these year levels, we look forward to enriching our whole-school approach to Mathematics. This rollout adds a valuable new layer to our teaching and learning, supporting all students at Sacred Heart to grow in confidence, understanding, and success in Maths.
Maths at Home Recommendation
Over the holidays, it’s especially important for students to stay connected to their core number skills. Regular use of NumBots and Times Tables Rock Stars (TTRS) helps keep these foundations strong, ensuring children return to school confident and ready to build on their learning. Even a few minutes a day can make a noticeable difference.
Alongside NumBots and TTRS, here are some fresh, fun ideas to keep maths skills active over the break:
Journey Estimator: When travelling, by car, bus, or on foot ask your child to estimate how long the journey will take. Compare their estimate to the actual time and discuss why it might be longer or shorter.
Map Mileage Challenge: Use a online map, or even a city guide. Ask your child to find the distance between two places, then work out how long the trip would take at different speeds (walking, cycling, driving).
Step Counter Challenge: If you’re going on a walk, use a pedometer or phone step counter. Challenge your child to estimate how many steps it will take to get to the end of the street, a local shop, or the nearest park, then compare the results.
Speed Search: While travelling, ask your child to read speed-limit signs or check the speedometer. They can calculate how long it would take to travel 1 km or 5 km at that speed, or how much quicker a journey becomes if the speed changes.
These activities help children practise distance, time, and estimation skills in real-life contexts, making maths both relevant and engaging.
"Little by little, one travels far.” — J.R.R. Tolkien
This quote reminds us that meaningful progress is built through small, steady steps, and this year, our students have shown exactly that. Every moment spent practising number facts, every challenge completed on NumBots or TTRS, and every effort made in lessons has contributed to real, noticeable growth. These small actions, repeated consistently, have had a great impact on confidence, fluency, and mathematical understanding across the school.
As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited to continue this journey, building on the strong foundations our students have laid and taking even more steps forward, little by little, together.
Mak Bulte
Maths Leader