Numeracy
At Nettlesworth Primary, we follow the National Curriculum covering the main topics of: number, place value, calculations, geometry and statistics. We use scholastic as a framework for planning. Each individual year group covers age specific material, progressing and building on last year’s work. Children are given the opportunity to revisit these topics each term.
Numeracy is daily for 1 hour with extra time given for mental maths, arithmetic and times tables. We are part of the Great North Maths Hub where we share expertise with other schools in developing challenge for all children.
- Intent-Mathematics
- Maths progression of skills
- Calculation-Policy 2025
- NCETM Calculation Guidance 2025
- Numeracy Policy Feb 2025
Key Information
NumBots
During your child’s reception and year 1 education we encourage the use of NumBots. NumBots is an online maths learning platform that helps children learn how to add and subtract, improving their fluency and recall in basic mental maths, and equipping them with maths confidence. NumBots covers subitising, number bonds, and addition and subtraction of double-digit numbers; gradually helping your pupils to build a solid conceptual understanding of number sense.
Login details will be sent home with your child via their homework book or planner.
TT Rockstars
Here at Nettlesworth Primary School, we use Times Table Rockstars for our year 2 to year 6 children to practise their times tables at home and at school. When it comes to times tables, speed AND accuracy are important – the more facts your child remembers, the easier it is for them to do more complex calculations. Times Table Rock Stars is a fun and challenging programme designed to help students master the times tables!
Login details will be sent home with your child via their planner.
KIRFs – Key Instant Recall Facts
KIRFs stands for Key Instant Recall Facts, and they are a structured set of mathematical facts that children in UK primary schools are expected to learn and recall quickly and accurately. Here’s a summary of what KIRFs are and why they matter:
What Are KIRFs?
KIRFs are core number facts that underpin much of the maths curriculum. These include:
- Number bonds (e.g., pairs of numbers that add up to 10 or 100)
- Times tables
- Doubling and halving
- Place value
- Fractions
- Addition and subtraction facts
- Multiplication and division facts
They are introduced each half term and tailored to the year group, gradually building in complexity as children progress through school.
Purpose of KIRFs
The main goal is to:
- Improve mental maths fluency
- Support quick recall of essential facts
- Free up working memory for solving more complex problems
- Build confidence and agility in mathematical thinking
How Are KIRFs Used?
- Practised regularly in school and at home
- Often integrated into homework and classroom routines
- Encouraged through short, frequent practice sessions (e.g., in the car, walking to school)
- Assessed periodically to ensure retention
Role of Parents
Parents are encouraged to:
- Engage with their child’s KIRFs
- Use fun and practical methods (like games or apps such as Times Table Rockstars and Hit the Button)
- Help make learning enjoyable and consistent
