This programme is for Reception teachers who would like to develop their specialist knowledge to ensure Reception pupils have the 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

What's Involved?

This programme is designed to improve the subject knowledge and pedagogical knowledge for all practitioners teaching and supporting the learning of reception maths.

This one-year programme will include number, shape, space and pattern.  You will explore how children's learning in all these areas can be supported through the development of the following skills;

• Oracy (including the development of mathematical language)
• Spatial reasoning
• Executive function

This programme consists of the equivalent of five days with 4 days being hub-led sessions and 1 day being NCETM-led asynchronous modules. 

Who can take part?

This programme is valuable for a Reception teacher attending with a teaching assistant so they can work together on developing classroom practice.

What is the cost?

The SKTM Early Years Programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme so is free to participating schools.

What will you learn?

•  Your pupils will demonstrate a positive attitude towards maths, being willing to have a go, persevere, and share their mathematical ideas
• You will explore and increase your use of a range of pedagogic approaches that will support pupils in engaging with and developing their maths
• You will understand how maths opportunities can be developed across all areas and in everyday routines 

 Best Start in Life

The government's strategy for improving child development and meeting the ambition that 75% of 5-year-olds in England have a good level of development by 2028

To achieve this, focus on improving teaching quality, investing in staff training, and using Maths Hubs to strengthen teachers’ understanding of early mathematics.

Other programmes to consider:

Mastering Number at Reception & KS1

This programme will support pupils to develop good number sense and allow maths leads to understand how to embed effective practice in Reception and in Key Stage 1, to ensure all pupils have the best start in life.

Mastering Number has been a highly successful programme for Reception and Key Stage 1 in schools which have implemented it well. Over 50% of primary schools have engaged in the programme

New and existing schools will be eligible for this new revised Mastering Number at Reception and KS1 programme.  

More Information

COURSE DETAILS:

Download/Print our PDF flyer providing programme summary and benefits to share with your department/ school. 

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