Embedded Maths Mastery

Overview

This embedded Maths scheme is designed for Year 12 SEND learners in sixth form, aligned with the National Curriculum for England’s Programme of Study for Key Stage 5 Functional Mathematics and Numeracy. It spans a full academic year (approximately 36 weeks), delivering flexible modular content embedded within broader study programmes. It aims to develop confident, functional numeracy skills applicable to everyday life and vocational contexts.

Class size: 10 students
Lesson duration: 60 minutes weekly session (plus optional practice)
Primary focus areas:

Basic numeracy
Functional maths skills
Money management
Measurement and estimation
Data handling and interpretation
Problem-solving and reasoning

National Curriculum Alignment

Focus: Functional maths at Post-16 level in line with the standards set out for Functional Skills Maths at Level 1 and 2, adapted to individual SEND needs.

Key learning objectives by module:

Number and Calculation: Understand and use whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percentages relevant to daily living (NC Reference: Functional Skills Maths, Number - Level 1 & 2)
Money and Financial Mathematics: Budgeting, managing money, calculating simple interest, and understanding currency (NC Reference: Functional Skills Maths, Money - Level 1 & 2)
Measurement and Estimation: Use metric units, converting between units, measuring length, weight, volume, and time (NC Reference: Functional Skills Maths, Measurement - Level 1 & 2)
Data Handling: Collecting, analysing, interpreting, and presenting data using charts and averages (NC Reference: Functional Skills Maths, Data - Level 1 & 2)
Problem-solving: Develop skills to interpret problems, plan an approach, and use reasoning (NC Reference: Functional Skills Maths, Problem Solving - Level 1 & 2)

Yearly Modular Breakdown

Module No.	Topic	Weeks	Key Targets
1	Number Basics & Place Value	4	Recognise number types, compare, use number lines
2	Fractions, Decimals & Percentages	5	Convert, order, calculate percentages in everyday contexts
3	Money Management	6	Budgeting, bills, calculations with money, shopping scenarios
4	Measurement & Conversions	5	Use and convert units, measure objects, estimate accurately
5	Handling Data	6	Collect and interpret data, create charts, find averages
6	Everyday Problem-solving	8	Apply maths skills in real-life problem scenarios
Embedded throughout	Revision, Personalised Targets & Assessment	2	Targeted support, exam preparation, personalised learning

Weekly Lesson Structure (Example: Money Management - Week 1)

Learning Objectives

Recognise different UK currency notes and coins.
Count money accurately using practical resources.
Identify the value needed to pay simple bills.

National Curriculum Link: FS Maths Level 1 - Money: Use common money calculations in real-life contexts.

Resources Required

Realistic plastic play money and coin sets
Visual money charts and real price labels from shops
Interactive money-counting apps/tablets (optional)
Whiteboard and visual aids illustrating notes/coins

Lesson Breakdown (60 Minutes)

Activity	Time	Description & Differentiation
Starter: Money Recognition	10m	Visual flashcards showing coins and notes; group shout-out answers. Use tactile coins for sensory engagement.
Whole Class Discussion on Currency	10m	Teacher explains values using large wall charts; use colour coding. Visual learners encouraged to match coins with amounts on charts.
Group Activity: Pay the Bill Game	15m	Role-play shop scenario: Students ‘pay’ for items using real or play money. Challenge tasks provided (e.g., “Pay £3.75”) with step-by-step scaffolded help for learners who need support.
Visual Sequencing Task	10m	Ordering coins/notes from smallest to largest; students use physical coins or laminated cards to order.
Individualised Practice	10m	Worksheets differentiated by ability – e.g., identifying coins, calculating change, simple budgeting. Visual prompt sheets provided.
Plenary & Reflection	5m	Class discussion about what was easy/difficult; verbal feedback and sticker rewards. Use thumbs-up/thumbs-down visuals for reflection to aid expression.

Strategies for Engagement & SEND Suitability

Multi-sensory approaches: Use tactile resources (coins, measuring tools), visual aids (charts, infographics), and technology (interactive apps) to cater for diverse learning preferences.
Personalised Learning Targets: Each learner has tailored targets updated termly, focusing on their strengths and areas for growth aligned to Functional Skills criteria.
Scaffolded Support: Activities are broken into manageable steps with visual prompts and adult/peer support where necessary.
Repetition & Routine: Consistent lesson structures to help build routine and reduce anxiety.
Use of Assistive Technology: Use speech-to-text apps or calculators as supports so learners can demonstrate understanding beyond manual arithmetic.
Peer Learning: Encourage collaboration and social interaction to build confidence and communication skills.
Positive Reinforcement: Frequent verbal and visual feedback ensures motivation and progress recognition.

Assessment & Review

Formative Assessment:
- In-class tasks and observations to monitor understanding.
- Anecdotal notes on learner engagement and strategies that work best.
- Personalised learning targets reviewed every 6 weeks.
Summative Assessment:
- At module end, practical assessments (e.g., budgeting a shopping trip, measuring items).
- Use real-life contextual scenarios to assess functional application.
- Tasks adapted for all levels ensuring accessibility without lowering standards.
Record Keeping:
- Use simple progress trackers visually displayed for learners to self-monitor.
- Monthly review meetings with SEND coordinators and parents/carers to share progress and adjust targets.

Visual Aid Examples to Include in Programme

Number lines with colour-coded numerals.
Money posters showing front and back images of all UK coins and notes.
Measurement conversion charts (metric units).
Interactive bar charts and pictograms.
Step-by-step problem-solving flowcharts with icons.

WOW Suggestions for Teachers

Incorporate real-life scenarios inspired by students’ interests (e.g., football ticket budgeting, cooking measurements) to personalise learning.
Use QR codes linked to short visual tutorials that students can access independently on phones/tablets.
“Maths in around us” photo challenges: Students photograph maths in their environment (e.g., price tags, time displays) to discuss in class.
Create a “Maths Treasure Hunt” where learners solve clues involving calculations to find items around the school or site.
Collaborative maths journals: Students keep visual record of their progress with drawings, infographics, and reflections.
Integrate mindfulness with maths: Short mindful counting or measurement activities to build focus and reduce anxiety.

This fully differentiated, flexible embedded maths curriculum ensures every Year 12 SEND learner can develop key functional maths capabilities essential for life, work, and further learning — all grounded firmly within the National Curriculum framework.

Teaching Instructions