All children are entitled to an education system which helps them to develop into responsible adults, ready to take on the challenges of the real world, and mathematics learning forms an integral part of this. In Jersey, the primary maths curriculum is designed to equip students with a strong foundational knowledge and all the skills necessary for their mathematical development, and in turn prepare them for the challenges of the secondary maths curriculum. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the learning from year 1 to year 6, as well as delve into some of the key areas of learning in your child’s journey through the Jersey Maths Curriculum.
Key Objectives
The primary maths curriculum in Jersey focuses on the development of core mathematical concepts, skills, and problem-solving abilities, the basis for lifelong learning and understanding. It aims to foster a deep understanding of mathematical principles and their real-world applications. The curriculum also emphasises the importance of critical thinking, reasoning, and effective communication in mathematics. Our maths tutors in Jersey see on a daily basis how valuable these core skills are, and are adept at supporting children to develop them further. Children will learn a range of progressive skills, which will, over time, help them to develop into confident mathematicians.
Key Components:
Number and Algebra: The curriculum lays a strong foundation in number sense, counting, place value, and the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). It progressively introduces algebraic thinking, helping students understand patterns, equations, and functions. We often find that with the more complex skills, such as algebra, students benefit from some additional one to one support with one of our Jersey maths tutors.
Measurement and Geometry: Students explore the concepts of measurement, including length, area, volume, and time. They also delve into geometry, learning about shapes, angles, symmetry, and transformations. Practical applications, such as map reading and measuring, are integrated to enhance students’ spatial awareness. The learning in this area builds towards skills such as trigonometry, which is carried through to study at Key Stage 3 and beyond.
Statistics and Probability: Students develop the skills needed to interpret and analyze data through graphs, tables, and charts. They learn to make predictions, calculate probabilities, and understand the concept of chance. These skills enable them to make informed decisions and evaluate the reliability of data. Again, there are areas of data analysis which young learners often find tricky to grasp – our Jersey maths tutors could provide your child with the additional support they need.
What does this look like in the classroom?
The primary maths curriculum in Jersey employs a range of teaching approaches to cater to diverse learning styles and abilities. Teachers use a combination of whole-class instruction, group work, and individual tasks to create an engaging and interactive learning environment. Younger learners in key stage 1 will engage with maths every day in a more formal lesson setting as well as through play and continuous provision. Further up the school, when learning becomes more formalised, learners in Jersey will experience daily maths lessons of around an hour, as well as additional learning time around key skills such as times tables and mental maths. Problem-solving activities and hands-on experiences are incorporated to encourage critical thinking and practical application of mathematical concepts.
Teachers and maths tutors in Jersey are always keen to make sure that the learning best matches the stage of development which each child is at, as much as possible. The primary maths curriculum in Jersey recognizes the diverse needs and abilities of students and promotes inclusive education. Differentiation strategies are employed to support learners who may require additional assistance or challenge, this may often include an element of choice, where learners are encouraged to pick their own level of challenge. Teachers and maths tutors will also provide targeted interventions, scaffolding, and enrichment activities to ensure all students can progress and succeed in mathematics.
Resources
The use of concrete, tangible maths equipment, such as counters, base ten (Deines), place value counters etc, and pictures and images are used throughout the Jersey primary maths curriculum, not just in key stage one. The benefits of using concrete maths manipulatives are numerous, and allow children to gain a deeper, more secure understanding of the concepts embedded in the Jersey maths curriculum. It isn’t unusual to see children of all levels and abilities making use of maths equipment when learning a new skill.
Jersey prides itself on valuing the professional development of all its teachers and maths tutors, and their skill is one of the greatest resources available to young learners. Our team at Tutoring Heroes Jersey are all well trained and qualified mathematicians and tutors, with a range of teaching methods to help the children we tutor become confident mathematicians.
But how is my child getting on?
To monitor students’ progress, regular formative assessments are conducted throughout the primary years. This could be small tests, marking children’s daily work or even assessing their answers and contributions during each lesson. These assessments provide feedback to both students and teachers, enabling targeted intervention. In addition, summative assessments, such as end of unit tests, at key milestones provide a comprehensive evaluation of students’ mathematical abilities and inform future planning and teaching strategies. Remember, if your child is working with one of our Jersey maths tutors, you can always request a progress update!
Parental Engagement (this is where you come in!):
The primary maths curriculum in Jersey encourages parental involvement in supporting their child’s mathematical development. Parents are provided with resources, workshops, and guidance to help them engage in meaningful mathematical activities with their children at home. This collaboration between parents and teachers / tutors builds a positive learning environment and enhances students’ overall mathematical growth. Even the simplest of activities such as water play or cooking has great potential to support your child’s maths learning (plus they’re great fun!)
What does it all add up to?
The primary maths curriculum in Jersey aims to cultivate a strong foundation in mathematics, enabling students to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and numeracy skills. By emphasizing conceptual understanding, real-world applications, and inclusive practices, Jersey’s primary maths curriculum prepares students for success in mathematics and beyond. Through a comprehensive framework, a variety of teaching approaches, and continuous support for students, Jersey’s maths teachers and tutors strive to provide a robust mathematical foundation for every child.
