New for 2026/27 - As part of the Best Start in Life strategy, this one-year programme support practitioners to develop their specialist knowledge to ensure that Reception pupils have the best start in life

What's involved?

This programme supports Reception teachers to develop specialist knowledge for teaching maths, and use a teaching for mastery approach as exemplified in the NCETM’s Essence of Mathematics Teaching for Mastery. It would be particularly valuable for a Reception teacher and teaching assistant to attend the programme together. They can then work together on developing classroom practice.

This one-year SKTM programme will include number, shape, space and pattern (replacing the previous SKTM for Early Years). Participants will also explore how children’s learning in all these areas can be supported through the development of the following skills:

• oracy (including the development of mathematical language)
• spatial reasoning
• executive function.

This programme consists of five days of facilitated learning:

• hub-led core sessions (the equivalent of four days)
• NCETM-led asynchronous modules (the equivalent of one day)

Participants will attend the hub-led days, in which they will develop their specialist knowledge. They will work collaboratively to consider the progression and difficulties relating to specific aspects of maths and how teaching for mastery supports children in Reception. Between these days participants will reflect on learning and notice the impact of the changes in their practice on their pupils. They will also complete an asynchronous module between each hub-led day to build on their knowledge and understanding.

What are the benefits?

• You will explore and increase their use of a range of pedagogic approaches that will
  support pupils in engaging with and developing their maths
• You will model the use of mathematical language and thinking as part of everyday
  activities in the setting

and

• Your pupils will be able to communicate their maths and mathematical thinking through a variety
  of representations and appropriate mathematical language
• Your pupils will be able to demonstrate a positive attitude and interest in maths, look for patterns and
  relationships, spot connections, and be willing to ‘have a go’

What are the expectations?

Participants (supported by their schools) are expected to:

• attend all the sessions
• complete an asynchronous module between each hub-led day
• contribute to online communities and the evaluation process

Who can apply?

This programme is for Reception teachers who would like to develop their specialist knowledge for teaching maths. It would be particularly valuable for a Reception teacher and their teaching assistant colleague to attend the programme together.

What is the cost?

The Specialist Knowledge for Teaching Mathematics (Reception Teachers) Programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is free to participating schools.

Where and when?