Specialist Knowledge for Reception Teachers
Best Start in Life
As part of the Best Start in Life strategy, 2026/27 sees the SKTM (Reception teachers and accompanying Teaching Assistants) Programme replace the previous SKTM for Early Years. This programme will bring together the previous two pathways for Number and Spatial Reasoning in a one-year programme.
Who can take part?
This programme is for Reception teachers who would like to develop their specialist knowledge for teaching maths. It would be particularly valuable for a Reception teacher and their teaching assistant colleague to attend the programme together.
What is involved?
This one-year programme supports Reception teachers to develop specialist knowledge for teaching maths, and use a teaching for mastery approach as exemplified in the NCETM’s The Essence of Mathematics Teaching for Mastery.
It will enable participants to explore number, shape, space and pattern. Reception teachers (and teaching assistants) will also explore how children’s learning in all these areas can be supported through the development of oracy, spatial reasoning and executive function.
Professional learning
Participants will:
- demonstrate enhanced maths subject knowledge using developmental learning trajectories to assess and plan for well- sequential and coherent learning opportunities
- understand how maths opportunities can be developed across all areas and in everyday routines
- understand how to support children's learning through developing oracy, spatial reasoning and executive function skills across all areas of mathematical routines.
What are the intended outcomes?
Pupil outcomes
Pupils will:
- be able to communicate their maths and mathematical thinking through a variety of representations and appropriate mathematical language
- be able to apply their developing mathematical understanding in a range of contexts
- demonstrate a positive attitude and interest in maths, look for patterns and relationships, spot connections, and be willing to 'have a go'
- talk to adults and peers about what they notice and not to be afraid to make a mistake
Practice development
Participants will:
- explore and increase their use of a range of pedagogic approaches that will support pupils in engaging with and developing their maths
- increase their confidence in enhancing opportunities for mathematical learning in all areas of provision
- model the use of mathematical language and thinking as part of everyday activities in the setting.
What is the cost?
The Early Years Specialist Knowledge Programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is free to participating schools.
How can I get involved?
To reserve your place on a work group during 26/27, please complete the form below and we will be in touch to confirm your place, subject to availability, when we have further details