Rooted in who we are, ready for who we’ll become – as thinkers, problem‑solvers and world‑shapers

At Tollgate, we believe mathematics is far more than a set of skills: it is a language for understanding our world, a discipline rich with creativity, curiosity and discovery. Maths empowers children to navigate the patterns of daily life, engage with new technologies, understand global issues, and make informed decisions about their futures.

Our curriculum aims for every child - regardless of starting point - to become a resilient, fluent and confident mathematician who enjoys the challenge, beauty and power of mathematical thinking. We want maths at Tollgate to be irresistible: a subject where children feel successful, excited, and eager to explore ideas deeply.

Our intent is for each child...

1. To be Fluent in Mathematics

We expect all children to develop secure fluency through carefully sequenced learning, intelligent practice and frequent opportunities to revisit and deepen understanding. Fluency is not rote recall - it is knowing why methods work, being able to make connections, and applying knowledge flexibly. With effective teaching, high expectations and a growth mindset, every pupil can make strong progress.

2. To Reason with Confidence and Clarity

Reasoning is at the heart of learning. Children learn to describe, justify, convince and prove using a rich mathematical language. They explain patterns, compare methods, challenge misconceptions and engage in meaningful mathematical dialogue. This builds both deep understanding and a genuine enjoyment of the subject.

3. To Become Skilled Problem‑Solvers

Pupils learn to draw on their prior knowledge, think strategically and explore more than one pathway to a solution. They develop the confidence to take risks, evaluate approaches and reflect on their thinking. Problem‑solving is applied to real‑world scenarios so that children recognise the purpose of mathematics beyond the classroom.

4. To Find Joy, Curiosity and Purpose in Mathematics

We want every child to experience maths as a subject they can enjoy and feel proud of. Through captivating problems, hands‑on exploration, mathematical stories, STEM links and irresistible learning opportunities, pupils feel secure enough to think deeply, question boldly and appreciate maths for its own sake.

A Curriculum for Life

By the time children leave Tollgate, we expect them to:

• have positive, resilient attitudes towards mathematics
• see themselves as capable, confident mathematicians
• be equipped with essential numeracy skills for secondary school and beyond
• recognise the role of maths in understanding global challenges and future technologies
• apply mathematical thinking to real‑life problems and future decision‑making

Our curriculum prepares children not only for the next stage of their education, but for a world where logical thinking, creativity and numerical confidence open doors to opportunity.