Lockerley Primary School has been involved in the Maths Hub since 2023. The Maths Lead took part in the Mastery Readiness Programme in 2023-24. This was then followed up with a year in a Development Work Group specifically for Mixed-Age schools.

Find out about the school's journey with the Maths Hub and why the school leadership feel it is important to work with the Hub:

1. What instigated your school's initial involvement with the Maths Hub?

Our school's initial involvement with the Solent Maths Hub began after I first saw information shared on social media about the free CPD opportunities, regular meetings, and resources on offer - including the provision of free rekenreks for EYFS. This instantly appealed, as we were keen to strengthen early mathematical understanding and close learning gaps for pupils working towards age-related expectations and those with additional needs. The opportunity to access high-quality training and practical resources without a financial barrier made it an obvious step forward for our school.

2. What impact have you seen in school as a result of your engagement with the Maths Hub?

Engaging with the Maths Hub has had a significant impact on our practice. Personally, I have benefitted from targeted CPD, gaining a deeper understanding of the 5 Big Ideas in a safe, supportive, and non-judgemental environment. As a Maths Lead, I now feel confident in recognising how children learn, identifying the small steps that support progression, and helping colleagues embed this thinking in their own classrooms. This has strengthened both my subject knowledge and my ability to lead with clarity and purpose.

3. How can a primary school co-ordinate staff professional development through the Maths Hub effectively?

Staff professional development has been carefully coordinated to maximise the benefits of our Maths Hub involvement. We began by trialling approaches in our own classroom, then introduced the strategies to colleagues via an INSET day and follow-up staff meetings. Initially, this involved using the NCETM spines for one unit, which encouraged reflective discussion about what worked well and what could be refined. We are now in a position to roll out whole-class mixed-age teaching where objectives are aligned across the school, ensuring consistency and progression from EYFS to Year 6. Our EYFS use Mastering Number and KS1 use both Mastering Number and NCETM Curriculum Prioritisation Spines.

4. How do you maximise impact of attendance to Maths Hub Work Groups?

We have also focused on maximising the impact of our attendance at Maths Hub Work Groups. Involving SLT in the process has strengthened delivery of CPD, as we have mirrored the Maths Hub's reflective practice by asking "What did you notice?" and considering the journey of each lesson. Recording and sharing our own teaching has increased staff confidence and promoted greater teamwork. This collaborative approach has made professional dialogue richer and more purposeful.

5. What advice would you give a school leader who is on the fence about getting involved in their local Maths Hub?

For schools considering joining a Maths Hub, my advice is simple - do it! My own teaching practice and confidence have grown significantly, my leadership skills have developed, and the quality of CPD is second to none. The team at our Maths Hub provide constant support, practical advice, and a wealth of expertise - and it's free. Without doubt, this has been the most impactful maths CPD I have taken part in, and it continues to make a tangible difference to our children's learning.