Introduction to the DfE KS3 Maths Guidance

Mathematics Guidance: Key Stage 3 was published by the DfE in September 2021, but how much have teachers and departments managed to read and familiarise themselves with it? And how can it be used to support teaching in secondary schools? This interview explores the guidance and how it might be used, with Carol Knights who led the writing of it, and Carrie Martin, who is beginning to use it with the schools in her MAT. Show notes Taking part in the discussion are: Carol Knights, NCETM Director for secondary Carrie Martin, Senior Network Leader of Maths, Cabot Learning Federation, SW England Steve McCormack, NCETM Communications Director. Episode Chapters 01:57 The structure of the guidance 02:25 The introductory section 03:42 The sample curriculum framework 05:40 What’s in the main body of the guidance 07:47 Making links to KS2 09:50 Ideas for use in the classroom 10:30 Using the guidance to review your KS3 curriculum 12:48 How the guidance is being used in Carrie’s MAT 14:25 Using the guidance without using the suggested sequencing of topics 22:10 Tips for navigating the guidance 23:04 How the guidance helps busy KS3 teachers know about KS2 maths. Useful links Information about the KS3 Guidance on the NCETM website NCETM KS3 Mastery Professional Development Materials NCETM exemplified Key Ideas: in PowerPoint files useful for the classroom NCETM Checkpoints: Year 7 classroom activities to assess prior learning from KS2