Mathematics News 

Beginning of Term 1:

Mathematics 

I’m delighted to introduce myself as the school’s new Maths/Numeracy Learning Specialist. My role is to support students and teachers to build strong mathematical understanding and confidence across all year levels.

I am often asked how parents can support student success. One of the most powerful ways families can support learning at home, particularly in the junior secondary years, is by helping students become fluent with their multiplication facts (and their often-overlooked division counterparts). Often parents think their children already know these, but students may have forgotten or not fully memorised them.

Around 80% of the Year 8 mathematics curriculum relies on multiplicative thinking - when students need to pause to work out a basic division fact or reach for a calculator, it can interrupt their thinking and distract from the learning at hand - such as algebra, fractions, rates and ratios. Knowing these facts “by heart” frees up working memory so students can focus on deeper understanding. Students who would like extra support are very welcome to attend Homework Club in the library, where help is available in a supportive, low-pressure environment.

Equally important is the message students receive about learning maths. We strongly encourage a growth mindset, where maths is seen as a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. While often said with the best intentions, phrases like “I was never good at maths” can inadvertently suggest that maths ability is something you either have or don’t and that it isn’t a priority. Messages such as “Maths takes practice” or “Everyone can get better at maths” help reinforce that effort, persistence and support really do make a difference.

Finally, I’d like to encourage all students whether they are studying General Mathematics, Methods, Specialist, and VM numeracy to stay curious and confident. Every pathway builds valuable problem-solving and reasoning skills and success in maths is not about being “fast” or “naturally good,” but about thinking deeply, asking questions and sticking with challenges. With consistent practice and our fabulous teachers, students can achieve excellent growth - good luck in your final year!

Thank you for your ongoing partnership in supporting your child’s learning. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or would like ideas for supporting maths learning at home.

Stacee Reddy

Maths/Numeracy Learning Specialist