London South West Maths Hub

Mastering Number at Reception and KS1

Primary & Early Years

 

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Mastering Number at Reception and KS1
 
Supporting pupils to develop good number sense.

 

 
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This programme will support pupils to develop good number sense and allow maths leads to understand how to embed effective practice in Reception and in Key Stage 1, to ensure all pupils have the best start in life.
 
This national programme - now in its sixth year - aims to secure firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2. The aim over time is that children will leave KS1 with fluency in calculation and a confidence and flexibility with number. Attention will be given to key knowledge and understanding needed in Reception classes, and progression through KS1 to support success in the future.
 
Mastering Number has been a highly successful programme for Reception and Key Stage 1 in schools which have implemented it well. Over 50% of primary schools have engaged in the programme. In Reception, it provides a comprehensive curriculum for number, but does not currently include the shape, space, pattern and measures elements of the mathematics curriculum. The intention for 2026/27 is to provide a full mathematics curriculum for Reception.
 
Due to the increased importance of spatial reasoning within primary mathematics, it will also include some support with spatial reasoning for Key Stage 1.
 
How the programme will work
The new programme for Reception will include materials for the equivalent of five days of the week, that will include shape, space, pattern and measures. 
 
Applications closed for 2026/27.