This project aims to secure firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2. The aim over time is that children will leave KS1 with fluency in calculation and a confidence and flexibility with number. Attention will be given to key knowledge and understanding needed in Reception classes, and progression through KS1 to support success in the future.
Who can take part?
Lead participants from Work Group schools will be three teachers – one each from Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 – known as Lead Teachers. Some support will also be given to subject leaders and headteachers. Where appropriate, Lead Teachers are expected to support the other teachers in their year group.
This programme is open to all schools that have not yet engaged with the Mastering Number Programme.
What is involved?
This programme focuses on the key knowledge and understanding needed in Reception classes, and progression through KS1. Participating schools will receive central training (online and face-to-face) and a wealth of pupil-facing resources.
The resources available provide teaching materials for four short sessions each week, aimed at developing children’s fluency and flexibility with number. Lead Teachers in schools will also contribute to an online community to share practice and engage in critical reflection.
In this video, Debbie Morgan, the NCETM’s Director for Primary, explains the rationale for the programme and how the abacus-like rekenrek can be used to help children develop confidence and fluency with number. Use of a rekenrek is one element of the Mastering Number Programme.
Evaluating our programmes in 2025/26 - EEF Trial
(Complete your expression of interest form by 22 July 2025)
The Maths Hubs Programme is embarking on a significant milestone: an independent evaluation, funded by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) of the Mastering Number at Reception and KS1 Programme for 2025/26.
The Mastering Number at Reception and KS1 will be assessed through randomised controlled trials (RCTs)- the gold standard for educational research. Abacus NW Maths Hub has been selected to participate in this trial.
Want to find out more?
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Read this blog post by Dr Jen Shearman, Director for Evaluation and Impact at the NCETM. In the post, Jen sets out why these trials will be an important part of Maths Hub activity in 2025/26
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Sign up to an information event and review FAQs related to the Mastering Number at Reception and KS1 trial
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Complete an Expression of Interest form with your local hub by 22 July 2025 about the Mastering Number at Reception and KS1
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Listen to a new NCETM podcast discussion, Evaluating Maths Hubs' impact with the EEF
What will you learn?
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Your pupils will develop and demonstrate good number sense
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You will develop a secure understanding of how to build firm mathematical foundations
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You will work to develop intentional teaching strategies focused on developing fluency in calculation and number sense for all children
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You will develop understanding and use of appropriate manipulatives to support your teaching of mathematical structures
What is the cost?
The Mastering Number Programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is free to participating schools.