Cognition​

​Work to support pupils’ cognition begins with a structured approach to teaching  early learning skills. The principles of TEACCH are used to help develop pupils’ early mathematical knowledge i.e. sorting, matching and developing a knowledge of patterns. This leads onto work with numbers. ​

​

Maths 

Aims and Ambition  

The aim for the Maths curriculum is to develop pupil’s understanding of mathematical concepts and skills, alongside functional application in order to make it relevant and meaningful. We aim for pupils to become independent problem solvers by participating in play and creative exercises that support their spatial reasoning, understanding of number, sorting, sequencing and patterns. We aim to develop basic mathematical skills which will be carried on into adulthood in order to support independence in life skills.  
 

What do pupils learn about  

Maths is taught as a practical subject with multi-sensory resources used to support learning in real life contexts. The maths curriculum is personalised to meet individual learning needs of each pupil across the school. In Phase 1, a play and exploration-based emphasis is placed on number, shape, colour, pattern and spatial reasoning. This continues into Phase 2 with an additional focus on explicit maths lessons and the functional application of maths. In Phase 3, basic skills are threaded throughout the Preparation for Adulthood curriculum to develop the use of maths in everyday life. 

Why the maths curriculum is important  

As well as understanding number, maths helps develop skills such as problem solving, understanding and using shapes and measure and developing spatial awareness. It helps pupils to recognise, create and describe patterns, which is essential for early problem-solving skills. Maths also underpins many daily life skills, such as telling the time, shopping and cooking, which leads to greater independence in adulthood.  

Donna Swales & Katy Miles