To support pupils with the transition from additive to multiplicative thinking, fluency in multiplication and corresponding division facts and understanding of multiplicative structures is essential. When pupils have automatic recall of facts, it can free their minds to focus on the underlying mathematical structures so they can understand, reason and explain their thinking in a variety of multiplicative contexts. This project focuses on the key knowledge and understanding needed in Year 4 and Year 5 to support pupils’ future progression in this area of maths where they can draw upon secure connections to previous learning so that they can make progress into Year 6 and beyond.

Aims of the project:

• The project offers schools that are involved in Mastering Number at Reception and KS1, and are also in a Sustaining Work Group, the opportunity for teachers to develop the knowledge and skills to secure firm foundations for their pupils in multiplicative relationships. Junior schools will also be considered if they are in a Sustaining Work Group.
• The aim over time is that all children will leave KS2 with fluency in multiplication and division facts, and a confidence and flexibility with number that exemplifies good number sense when looking at multiplicative relationships.
• Schools will gain an insight into how a coherent fluency programme can develop fluency for ALL pupils. They will secure an understanding of the connections made between Mastering Number at Reception and KS1, and Mastering Number at KS2, to support both pupils and teachers when considering intervention strategies and staff professional development opportunities.

Lead Teachers in Years 4 and 5 will be provided with teaching materials, which they are expected to use for five short sessions each week, aimed at developing children’s fluency and flexibility with number. These materials are in the form of teacher guidance and daily classroom resources, provided as PowerPoint slides and pupil worksheets.

Lead Teachers will engage in centrally led online workshops, once a term. These sessions will support the teachers to understand the materials better, as well as have time to develop their subject expertise to ensure maximum pupil impact through their use.

Lead Teachers will engage in local sessions once a term as participants in a Work Group led by a local Maths Hub Work Group Lead. They will be expected to engage with teachers from other schools through a local online community to reflect on their practice and the progress of their pupils.



Lead Teachers will need to support all other teachers of Years 4 and 5 in their school in to use the materials effectively, and to work collaboratively to develop their understanding of children’s progression in applying facts to a range of contexts using a teaching for mastery approach.