At The Bridge School we intend to provide a curriculum which caters for the needs of all pupils. Mathematics is important in everyday life and, with this is mind, the purpose of our Maths curriculum is to ensure all pupils develop their basic maths skills which they can apply to real life situations. This includes problem solving and being able to think logically, at a level that is appropriate to the child. These skills will increase pupils’ resilience and ultimately their independence. The learning for all pupils has been carefully sequenced to ensure skills are taught systematically and built on over time.
Maths in the formal and semi-formal pathway is taught using the ‘White Rose’ scheme. Teachers are supported by the Maths Lead to adapt and apply the practical ideas and key concepts to suit the needs of the pupils. We teach using a ‘Mastery’ approach to develop pupils’ fluency (applying a skill to different contexts), reasoning (applying logically to work out a strategy) and problem solving (exploration, making links) skills at their level. A wide range of practical resources are used to support the teaching of key concepts, because we know that it is the process of physically doing, exploring and playing, that helps our pupils to make connections and embed new learning.
Maths in the pre-formal pathway is taught by following a bespoke curriculum designed to meet the needs of our individual learners. It has been designed around a carefully sequenced skills map as well as pupils EHCP outcomes. Pupils have opportunities to practise, consolidate and apply their learning in different environments and are encouraged to engage with, explore and learn through a sensory and play-based approach. Staff use ideas from Flo Longhorn to help support them.