Origin are excited to open applications for this fantastic programme for it’s sixth year
in 2026-27 with exciting revisions.

New for 2026/27

The intention of the revised programme is to provide a full mathematics curriculum for Reception.

The new programme for Reception will include materials for the equivalent of five days of the week, that will also include shape, space, pattern and measures. Guidance will be available to structure the revised programme. Access to the materials and associated training will be available to both existing and new schools.

Due to the increased importance of spatial reasoning within primary mathematics, it will also include some support with spatial reasoning for Key Stage 1.

In addition, assessment guidance and some supporting materials for all three-year groups will be developed, to enable teachers to check that pupils are on track to achieve the intended outcomes of the programme, and provide guidance on how to support children who are not.

What is Mastering Number?

This project aims to secure firm foundations in the development of good number sense for all children from Reception through to Year 1 and Year 2.
The aim over time is that children will leave Key Stage 1 with fluency in calculation and a confidence and flexibility with number.
Attention will be given to key knowledge and understanding needed in Reception classes, and progression through Key Stage 1 to support success in the future.

Lead teacher participants will receive training and resources equipping them to give their class a daily short session as part of scheduled maths teaching. The programme will last for the whole school year.

Over the year, children will use a range of materials and representations.

Benefits

High quality support for teacher professional development for the lead teachers, directed by the NCETM and facilitated by the local Maths Hub

Supportive and collaborative online community facilitated by the Work Group Lead

Resources are provided, including coherent plans for the Mastering Number daily sessions and rekenreks for your school to use. See the video below for a taster of how rekenreks can support teaching and learning.

What is the cost?

This is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is free to participating state schools. This includes independent special schools with 50% or more LA funded pupils.

Our children have been highly engaged since starting the Mastering Number programme and look forward to the sessions each day. They are making links, using the stem sentences and all children feel confident to share their ideas whether it’s verbally, using their rekenreks or abstract.  
 

Mastering Number Participant 2025-26

 It has been a massive success so far and all staff are enjoying following the content.  

Mastering Number Participant 2025-26

As a teacher, I have seen the children’s basic number knowledge developing and becoming more secure. Children are using the stem sentences independently to explain their own reasoning and are great at noticing!   

Mastering Number Participant 2025-26

If you would like more information from NCETM click here