Primary Mathematics Programme

What is the Primary Mathematics Specialist Programme?

The Primary Mathematics Specialist Programme is a professional development programme for primary school teachers. There is some subsidised funding from central government to contribute towards the programme giving more teachers the opportunity to engage in this highly successful programme.

What are the aims of the programme?

At the end of the two year mathematics programme participants will:

• Have deep mathematical subject and pedagogical knowledge that informs and is informed by their own practice through study, analysis and research
• Have developed the collaborative, practice-transfer skills needed to work with colleagues across the school to develop their subject and pedagogical knowledge and to implement improvements in the teaching and learning of mathematics for all children in the school 

What does the programme offer?

This is a significant opportunity for professional development which will place the participant at the cutting edge of teaching and learning in mathematics. The programme will include:

Higher Education Institution (HEI) face-to-face training

This will consist of the equivalent of five days (30 hours) per year delivered outside of school time including a two day residential, followed up with directed tasks and assignments such as reading, mathematical activities, classroom research and online debate. A professional learning log will be maintained which will capture progression and development.

Local Authority-led network meetings

These will complement the HEI face-to-face training and will capitalise on the expertise of local authority representatives. Network meetings will be delivered half termly (six per year).

On successful completion of the programme you will receive:

• Acknowledgement you have met the requirements expected to receive Mathematics Specialist Teacher accreditation
• The award of 60 Masters level credits  

The whole course has had a huge impact on my mathematical thinking, subject knowledge and teaching.

Comment from a teacher

What are the benefits to the school?

Schools will:  

• Receive high quality funded CPD - this is fully funded in the first year and some partial funding may be available in the second year
• Generate potential to enhance the quality of learning and teaching of mathematics across the school
• Support the drive to raise standards of achievement and attainment
• Extend possibilities for the sharing of best practice in mathematics learning and teaching
• Be able to provide opportunities for colleagues to be coached and supported in their teaching of mathematics

Who should apply?

Any qualified teacher working within a primary school setting is eligible to apply. You do not necessarily need to be a leading mathematics teacher or a mathematics co-ordinator, but you will require the recommendation and support of your head teacher.

The following criteria will be applied in the selection process:

• Evidence of good teaching skills
• An enthusiasm for mathematics and a desire to develop
• A commitment to the demands that the programme will make
• The full support of the school