Teaching & Learning at Milgate
Being a MAV Math Active School
Milgate Primary School has recently been recognised as a Mathematics Association of Victoria Maths Active School - a recognition that reflects our ongoing commitment to high-quality mathematics teaching and learning across the school
Being a Maths Active School is about far more than students completing maths worksheets or learning procedures. It recognises schools that actively build strong mathematical thinking, curiosity, problem-solving skills and confidence in learners from Foundation to Year 6.
To achieve this recognition, schools demonstrate a commitment to several key areas. At Milgate, this includes supporting the professional learning of staff through ongoing research-informed practice and collaboration, ensuring our mathematics program is carefully structured to maximise student learning and growth, and promoting effective teaching practices that develop deep conceptual understanding.
During a recent school visit, MAV representatives observed students confidently explaining their mathematical thinking, working collaboratively to solve challenging problems, and using a range of strategies and materials to support their learning. Across classrooms, students engaged with hands-on materials, visual representations and technology to explore concepts in meaningful ways. Learning intentions and success criteria were clearly visible and referred to throughout lessons, helping students understand the purpose of their learning and reflect on their progress.
A strong focus of mathematics at Milgate is the intentional use of questioning and formative assessment. Teachers carefully plan questions that uncover student thinking, monitor understanding in the moment and guide next teaching steps. Students are encouraged to explain, justify and refine their thinking, helping them develop both confidence and mathematical reasoning skills.
The visit also highlighted our continued work with research-informed approaches such as Peter Liljedahl’s Thinking Classrooms, where students collaborate, discuss strategies, and engage in rich mathematical tasks that promote deep thinking and problem solving.
Importantly, being a Maths Active School also means valuing mathematics beyond the classroom. Milgate actively promotes student participation in mathematics activities and competitions, incorporates technology meaningfully into learning, and works to strengthen partnerships with parents and the wider community so that mathematics is seen as relevant, engaging and important in everyday life.
At Milgate, we are proud of the strong culture of mathematical thinking that continues to grow across our school. We remain committed to refining our practice, supporting all learners to experience success and challenge, and ensuring every student develops the confidence to think critically, solve problems and apply mathematics in meaningful real-world contexts.
Read the article from the Mathematics Association of Victoria, here.