In their own words
Our Maths — No Problem! journey
We began our Maths — No Problem! journey back in 2016. Maths mastery could only be introduced on a year-by-year basis, and as we wanted to offer all of our children the mastery approach immediately, we purchased a few copies of the MNP text books for teachers to dip into. Then, after the HoS attended Ban Har’s three-day course, the full potential of Maths — No Problem! was realised.
Following this, we introduced MNP throughout Key Stage 2, including Year 6. Initially, we didn’t benefit fully as we did not use all of the components, but eventually we realised how much more effective it was when we used the textbooks, workbooks, assessment papers and the online Maths Hub together.
The impact of Maths — No Problem! on teachers’ pedagogy, children’s deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and their improved ability to reason and problem solve ignited a newfound passion for maths across the school. All of which naturally led to high achievement outcomes in maths.
Our SLT have now all attended a three-day course. We continually refine our practice through annual whole school Inset training delivered by MNP consultants across both schools in the trust to cater to the differing needs of experienced and staff who are new to the MNP approach. This hands-on training has supported us to continually develop our teaching for mastery practice.
The training for newer staff has ensured that they have a clear understanding of the theory and practice behind MNP but has also helped to keep us up to date as the trainers themselves have refined their delivery. The more experienced practitioners’ Inset has allowed us to focus on specific areas according to current needs. Each Inset day has been exciting as it provides us with support on how to refine our practice.
Our staff now plan together with their partner teachers and a senior leader is always present for guidance and collaboration. Teachers talk through lessons in the morning and reflect on lessons together to inform their teaching of the next lesson. Also, all our staff now have access to MNP online resources that help them with planning. The textbooks and workbooks are now in every classroom and all senior leaders help with regular feedback, team teaching and monitoring.