Why Maths Matters

At Wetherby Prep, we recognise that mathematics is not just a subject, it’s a foundation for lifelong learning and thinking. According to the Education Endowment Foundation, pupils with strong numeracy skills at age 11 are more likely to succeed academically across other subjects.

That’s why we prioritise deep understanding, flexible problem-solving, and calm, confident execution, not just rote learning. Whether preparing for 11+ or aiming for scholarship-level 13+ papers, our boys benefit from a curriculum that fosters mathematical resilience, curiosity, and critical thinking.

Our teachers bring energy, creativity, and expertise to the classroom every day. Their stories are as inspiring as their teaching. Mr Gascoine, Head of Upper School Maths, first developed his love of numbers while helping his father (a chemistry lecturer) map and explore caves in the Brecon Beacons. “We used measuring, calculating, and even small explosives,” he laughs. “It was maths in action.”

Mr Maguire, a former professional Irish dancer who toured globally with Riverdance, brought his performance skills into the classroom. “I grew up teaching Irish dancing, so teaching was always part of my life,” he explains. “Maths is like rhythm - you just need to hear the pattern.”

What unites them all is a deep belief in the transformative power of maths.

“Maths teaches logic, resilience, and confidence,” says Mr Wilson, Head of Lower School Maths. “I love seeing pupils realise they can do something they thought they couldn’t. That moment is magic.”

Building Strong Foundations

The OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) has consistently shown that pupils who develop number fluency and flexible strategies early are better equipped for advanced problem-solving later on.

At Wetherby Prep, we lay those foundations early:

- A spiral curriculum ensures concepts are revisited and strengthened over time
- Weekly Cycle Tests from Year 6 help identify gaps before they widen
- Visual models and manipulatives aid understanding in Lower School
- Personalised extension tasks ensure advanced learners remain challenged

Mr Stead-Harris, who has taught in both under-resourced and top-performing schools, reflects: “Maths must be visible. Boys need to see how and why it works, through models, discussion, and real-life context. My goal is to build confidence through clarity and exploration.”

The Art of Teaching Maths

Every school teaches maths. But how we teach maths at Wetherby Prep is what sets us apart.

Walk into a Wetherby classroom and you’ll find boys debating the best way to calculate a cheetah’s top speed, rapping about problem-solving to the tune of Ice Ice Baby, or exploring probability through the mechanics of poker.

“Maths shouldn’t feel abstract,” says Mr Gascoine. “I link it to sport, animals, games; anything that makes it real. That’s when learning sticks.”

From Times Tables Rock Stars to Kahoot quizzes and Blooket reviews, Mr Maguire’s younger pupils learn through rhythm, movement, and laughter. “We sometimes film our own rap versions,” he smiles. “They’re hilarious, and more importantly, memorable.”

This vibrant, high-engagement environment ensures that boys are not only mastering the curriculum - they’re loving the journey.

Preparing for Exams and for Life

Of course, exam preparation matters. But we believe deep learning goes far beyond test drills. That’s why we equip boys to think flexibly, work collaboratively, and apply their knowledge in unfamiliar contexts; the true demands of the 11+ and 13+.

We offer:
- Maths sets from Year 4, so boys can move at a pace that suits them
- Past paper exposure to demystify exam formats
- Scholarship preparation groups for the most ambitious learners
- Targeted support through small-group and one-to-one interventions

“Struggling is a vital part of learning,” says Mr Stead-Harris. “I break things down and build trust. Once boys feel safe to try, they begin to thrive.”

The impact of this approach is clear. In the past three years, over 80% of Wetherby boys have secured places at their top-choice schools, with many winning maths scholarships or commendations.

Confidence is Key

According to a 2022 study by the National Numeracy charity, more than 30% of children aged 10–14 experience maths anxiety, which can lead to avoidance and underachievement.

Our teachers understand this and tackle it head-on.

“I tell the boys, the only difference between a genius and a fool is that a fool makes the same mistake twice,” says Mr Maguire. “So go ahead; make different mistakes every day.”

We celebrate effort over perfection, create space for questions, and build a growth mindset that empowers boys to take risks and keep going.

Mr Wilson agrees: “If a boy gets something wrong, I don’t step in with the answer. I ask questions. I give him tools. That way, the solution becomes his.”

Success Beyond Scores

We are proud of our results, but our real measure of success is growth.

“One of my most memorable pupils came in with severe maths anxiety,” recalls Mr Stead-Harris. “He avoided answering questions for weeks. But slowly, through patient support and celebrating every win, he began helping others. That’s the power of confidence.”

Mr Gascoine echoes this sentiment: “Raw scores are just one measure. Creativity, work ethic, curiosity; those are the real hallmarks of mathematical success.”

Head, Nina Kingsmill Moore reflects, “Some of my most joyful teaching moments were spent leading maths sets in a prep school. The classroom was full of energy; we laughed, challenged each other, and often became so absorbed in problem-solving that the lesson naturally carried on past the bell. My own school experience of learning maths was quite the opposite. It felt intimidating and joyless. I promised myself then that no child in my care would ever fear maths the way I once did. I hope I was able to bring the sense of excitement and discovery that was missing from my own lessons into the ones I taught.”

Conclusion: Maths as a Mindset

At Wetherby Prep, maths is more than just numbers on a page. It’s a language, a logic, and a life skill. Our teachers don’t just teach, they mentor, inspire, and empower.

Through high-quality instruction, real-world relevance, and joyful curiosity, we help boys become not only exam-ready but world-ready, resilient thinkers who know they can face any challenge with confidence.

They leave Wetherby not just knowing how to solve problems, but believing that they can.