Expert Teaching, Strong Mathematical Foundations

In MLC’s Junior School, students develop strong mathematical foundations through learning that builds fluency, reasoning and deep conceptual understanding.

As their knowledge grows, so too does their confidence to tackle new challenges, explain their thinking and apply mathematics in meaningful ways.

Students benefit from a consistent, evidence-informed approach to teaching that combines explicit instruction with teaching that is tailored to each student.

Mathematics instruction in the Junior School is underpinned by the gradual release of responsibility model, often described as "I do, we do, you do". This framework provides students with clear guidance as they learn new concepts and skills.

Teachers first model mathematical thinking and strategies explicitly, before working alongside students to deepen understanding and then supporting them to apply their learning independently. Through this gradual progression, students develop both confidence and increasingly sophisticated mathematical reasoning.

"While the approach is consistent across the Junior School, it's not one size fits all," explains Louise Peyton, Head of Junior School. "Teachers are constantly considering what their students need and adapting lessons accordingly."

Adaptive teaching is central to mathematics learning in the Junior School. Drawing on assessment data, classroom observations and professional judgement, teachers identify where each student is in their learning and respond with the appropriate level of support, challenge or extension.

Through carefully sequenced learning experiences, concepts are introduced systematically and reinforced through regular review, guided practice and consolidation. Students build fluency, deepen understanding and develop the confidence to engage with complex mathematical ideas.

As students progress through Junior School, teachers place a strong emphasis on helping them understand not only how mathematics works, but why. Mathematical vocabulary is explicitly taught and unpacked, enabling students to communicate their thinking with clarity and precision. Problem-solving strategies are modelled and explored, encouraging students to approach challenges with confidence and develop flexible ways of thinking. Hands-on learning experiences also help students make meaningful connections between abstract concepts and real-world applications.

"Teachers are also focussed on what enrichment can look like in the classroom – ensuring that all students are challenged appropriately in their learning," says Louise. 

Opportunities for challenge are embedded throughout classroom learning. Teachers carefully consider how tasks can be adapted to extend students' thinking, encouraging them to apply their knowledge in new ways and engage with increasingly sophisticated mathematical concepts.

This commitment extends beyond the classroom. Students have access to a range of enrichment opportunities designed to further develop mathematical thinking. These include mathematics mentoring opportunities for students in Year 3 - 6 with MLC’s Gifted and Talented Education Teacher. 

"Students also take part in activities that help foster curiosity and a positive relationship with mathematics," says Louise. "It's important that students enjoy the subject and see themselves as capable mathematical learners."

By combining explicit instruction, adaptive teaching and meaningful opportunities for enrichment, MLC's Junior School mathematics program develops learners who are equipped to think deeply, embrace challenges and approach future learning with confidence.