Yew Tree Primary Academy

What makes Yew Tree Primary Academy an Accredited School?

Since 2018, Yew Tree Primary Academy has transformed their mathematics education with the Maths — No Problem! programme. At the core of Yew Tree's success is their dedicated application of the CPA approach, a cornerstone of the Maths — No Problem! methodology. This approach brings maths to life, guiding pupils from hands-on activities through visual representations to abstract concepts. Mathematics has been made accessible and exciting for all pupils, replacing maths anxiety with enthusiasm. The result is a robust understanding of mathematical principles that boosts confidence across all pupil groups, including those in the Designated Provision.

Yew Tree Primary has truly embraced the Maths — No Problem! philosophy, transforming mathematics from a mere subject into a pupil favourite. Their commitment extends beyond improving test scores; they're cultivating a genuine love for learning that will serve pupils throughout their lives. This holistic approach to mathematics education truly makes Yew Tree Primary worthy of being an Accredited School.

In their own words

Our Maths — No Problem! journey

Since its introduction at Yew Tree in 2018, the Maths — No Problem! programme has transformed the way we teach and learn mathematics. Over the past six years, it has played a pivotal role in boosting both achievement and enjoyment of the subject, providing our pupils with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed. We have seen significant improvements in the mathematical attainment of our pupils. More importantly, Maths — No Problem! has instilled a sense of confidence in children who might have previously struggled with maths. Through the consistent support of this programme, pupils now approach maths with resilience and a positive attitude.

The benefits of the programme don’t stop with academic achievement. It also nurtures enjoyment of the subject, creating an environment where children are excited to learn. Lessons are designed to be interactive and engaging, encouraging curiosity and problem-solving. This has helped shift the mindset from maths being viewed as a difficult or intimidating subject to one that is fun and rewarding. As a result, children are increasingly taking ownership of their learning and developing a love for mathematics that will last a lifetime.

Maths — No Problem! in our school

At the core of the Maths — No Problem! programme is the CPA (Concrete, Pictorial, Abstract) approach, which enables children to build a solid foundation before moving on to more abstract problem-solving techniques. By starting with hands-on activities (Concrete), then using visual aids (Pictorial), and finally transitioning to more symbolic methods (Abstract), pupils can grasp complex ideas at their own pace, ensuring that each step is fully embedded before moving on. This structured approach has had a clear impact on achievement across the school, including children in our Designated Provision.

Maths — No Problem! challenges all pupils, regardless of their starting point. The way that the lessons and the workbooks are structured, along with the encouragement of deep thinking, ensures that every child is both supported and stretched. Pupils are regularly asked to explain their thinking, allowing them to develop critical reasoning skills. This emphasis on promoting oracy is a key strength of the programme, as children are given regular opportunities to verbalise their thought processes, explain their solutions, and engage in mathematical discussions with their peers. This not only builds their understanding but also strengthens their ability to communicate mathematically — a skill that is essential as they progress through school.

As children move up the school, the programme continues to challenge them in new ways, ensuring that they are always building on what they have previously learned. The depth of understanding fostered by the CPA approach means that pupils do not simply memorise methods or answers; they develop a strong conceptual understanding that allows them to apply their knowledge to new and unfamiliar problems. This deeper understanding becomes evident as they tackle increasingly complex topics with confidence and independence.

School contact details:

Contact name:
Jennifer Heeley
j.heeley@yewtreeknowsley.co.uk

Address:
Yew Tree Primary Academy
The Avenue
Halewood
L26 1UU

Phone number:
0151 477 8950

Email:
school@yewtreeknowsley.co.uk

Visit the Yew Tree Primary Academy website