At Pensilva Primary School, we are excited to introduce the Number Sense programme. This is a structured and research-informed approach to developing pupils’ fluency with key mathematical facts.
What is Number Sense?
Number Sense refers to a child’s ability to understand, relate, and manipulate numbers flexibly and efficiently. It is the foundation for all higher-level mathematics and is essential for confident problem-solving.
The programme focuses on:
- Daily practice of core number facts
- Visual representations to deepen understanding
- Structured progression from counting to calculation
- Verbal reasoning to explain mathematical thinking
Why We’re Using It
We know that fluency with number facts, such as number bonds, doubles and times tables, is critical for success in mathematics. The Number Sense programme helps children:
- Develop automaticity with key facts
- Build confidence in mental maths
- Improve accuracy and speed
- Strengthen reasoning and problem-solving skills
How It Works
- Short, daily sessions led by class teachers
- Children are taught in groups of similar stages, rather than in their regular class
- Targeted activities matched to pupils’ developmental stage
- Consistent language and strategies across year groups
- Regular assessment to track progress and inform teaching
Stage 1 - Early Years Number Sense Programme
Designed to help our youngest learners develop a deep understanding of numbers before formal counting begins.
- Focuses on quantities to 10, using rich visual animations.
- Encourages mathematical talk and reasoning.
- Supports the Early Learning Goals for Number and Numerical Patterns.
- Builds spatial awareness and subitising (recognising quantities without counting).
- Structured and aligned with the statutory EYFS framework.
Stage 2 - Number Facts Fluency Programme
Focused on addition and subtraction, this programme helps children develop number sense and fluency in key facts.
- Focuses on developing recall and understanding of key number facts e.g. number bonds
- Uses visual models and animations to build understanding.
- Teaches 12 calculation strategies to support flexible thinking.
- Structured like phonics: every fact is taught systematically.
Stage 3 - Times Tables Fluency Programme
This programme helps children master their times tables through short, daily sessions and engaging conceptual lessons.
- Starts once children are confident with addition and subtraction.
- Daily 10-minute fluency sessions build speed and accuracy.
- Conceptual lessons help children understand patterns and relationships in multiplication.
- Prepares children for the Year 4 Multiplication Tables Check (MTC).
- Proven impact: Schools using the programme saw MTC scores rise from 19.9 to 22.8 out of 25.
Stage 4 - Arithmetic Focus Group
A targeted support group to help children build confidence and fluency in key maths skills once key number facts have been mastered.
- Focuses on core arithmetic skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
- Children work in small groups for short, focused sessions during the week.
- Activities are designed to be engaging and accessible, helping children understand number relationships and improve calculation speed.
- Progress is closely monitored, with teaching tailored to each child’s needs.
- Builds the foundations needed for success in wider maths learning.