Maths at Hazelwood

 

Mathematics teaching at Hazelwood sets out to take advantage of children’s natural curiosity about the world around them.  We are focused on ensuring that a deep-rooted conceptual understanding of the subject is put in place through a physical exploration of the curriculum rather than through the repetitive application of "method”.  We use the great outdoors as much as possible for everything from simple measuring tasks through to calculations of speed on the athletics track and the application of bearings and compass work to orienteering in Ashdown Forest.

  

Ultimately, it is analytical, problem-solving ability which we are trying to foster in all the pupils as these are the truly valuable, transferable skills they will need long after they move on from Hazelwood.  There is rarely a single solution to problems encountered outside school and this is also true of many challenges faced in the classroom.  For this reason, children are encouraged to adopt a questioning mindset and to come up with their own analyses of problems and, thereby, their own solutions.

  

Children are taught in sets from Year 3 (age 7) so that they are working with others of similar ability.  This enables us to extend the most able and yet support those that are struggling with the subject in equal measure.  We work hard both to earn the children’s trust and to inspire them through a dynamic, varied and practical approach to each individual topic.  We also strive to have as much fun as possible in the process!

  

Maths Clinics and after-school clubs are offered during lunchtimes as well as early mornings and at the end of the day.  These are designed to extend potential scholars, allow    catch-up for those that have missed lessons and, of course, support those that are finding the subject difficult.  We have two members of staff run most of these sessions as they are usually well attended.

  

If you would like to know more about the teaching of mathematics at Hazelwood, please do not hesitate to contact me directly at phillimorer@hazelwoodschool.com. 

  

 

Mrs Roma Phillimore
Head of Maths