What is Maths Mastery?

Maths Mastery is a carefully sequenced curriculum designed to help every child develop a deep and confident understanding of mathematics. Developed by Ark, it builds knowledge step by step so that children not only know how to do maths, but also understand why methods work.

The programme combines high-quality lesson resources, evidence-based teaching strategies, and regular professional development for teachers. It focusses on four key areas: conceptual understanding, mathematical thinking, problem-solving, and the use of mathematical language.

As Dr Helen Drury, founder of Ark Maths Mastery, explains:

“You know you’ve mastered something when you can apply it to a totally new problem in an unfamiliar situation.”

Why do we teach Maths Mastery?

We teach Maths Mastery to help every pupil enjoy maths and experience success, whatever their starting point. Lessons are designed to provide both challenge and support so that all learners make strong progress.

A key feature of the programme is the use of precise mathematical vocabulary. Pupils are encouraged to talk about their ideas, explain their reasoning, and use the correct terms with confidence.

Teachers have access to excellent teaching materials and ongoing training through Ark’s professional network, helping them deliver high-quality lessons. We also continue to use the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract (CPA) approach introduced through our previous SmartMaths programme, ensuring that pupils move from hands-on exploration to visual models and then to abstract reasoning with real understanding.

How do we assess and plan for progress?

Assessment is a regular and supportive part of Maths Mastery. Alongside daily marking, classroom discussions, and observation, teachers use Ark’s pre- and post-unit assessments to identify what pupils know and where they need extra help.

This information is analysed through the online assessment portal, giving teachers clear, question-by-question insight into each child’s understanding. Lessons and future planning are then adapted to meet pupils’ individual needs quickly and effectively, without the need for time-consuming manual data entry.

We also focus on developing depth of understanding. Pupils are encouraged to think deeply, explain their reasoning, and apply their learning to new and challenging problems – known as the 10 Ideas for Depth. Teachers use responsive teaching strategies, inspired by educational research, to ensure lessons are adapted to each child’s strengths and next steps.

Our aim

Through the Maths Mastery approach, we want every pupil to see themselves as a confident mathematician – someone who can reason, solve problems, and enjoy the challenge of learning something new every day.