At Sacred Heart Parish School, we deliver a Mathematics program built on strong, evidence-based teaching practices that support every learner to thrive. Our approach is grounded in cognitive science and designed to build deep understanding, fluency, and confidence in every student.
We use explicit instruction as the foundation of our teaching. New concepts are introduced clearly and systematically by the teacher, ensuring all students know exactly what they are learning and how to succeed. Through the Gradual Release of Responsibility model—‘I do, We do, You do’—students are supported at every stage as they move from guided to independent learning.
A core feature of our Maths instruction is daily review. By revisiting key concepts regularly, students strengthen their memory, deepen their understanding, and build essential connections between topics. This daily practice supports long-term retention and ensures that learning is never left behind.
We follow the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) model to help students understand and master mathematical ideas. They begin with hands-on materials to explore concepts (concrete), move to visual representations (pictorial), and finally apply their knowledge using numbers and symbols (abstract). This structured progression supports all learners and allows them to build strong conceptual foundations before moving into more abstract thinking.
Our teaching is informed by cognitive science, particularly how memory works. We recognise that working memory is limited, so we design lessons that reduce overload and maximise success. Key concepts are introduced in small, manageable steps, with plenty of opportunities for multiple exposures across a range of contexts. This ensures that knowledge is not only understood but remembered and applied over time.
A major focus at Sacred Heart is building automatic recall of basic number facts in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. When students can retrieve facts quickly and accurately, they have more cognitive capacity available for solving complex problems. Tools like Times Tables Rockstars, along with targeted fluency practice, make this learning both effective and enjoyable.
Above all, Mathematics at Sacred Heart is purposeful, consistent, and student-centred. Through explicit teaching, regular review, and carefully designed learning experiences, we empower every student to become a confident and capable mathematician, ready to tackle challenges with curiosity and skill.