Specialist Knowledge for Teaching Mathematics (SKTM) – Early Years Teachers

Develop mathematical subject knowledge and understand the pedagogy that underpins the teaching of it.

“A very experienced teacher from my Early Years staff returned from session 1 of the SKTM Number Pathway buzzing with ideas. She says it has opened doors to a whole new way of looking at maths in Early Years, it is so much more than just counting!’

Math Lead referring to SKTM (Specialist Knowledge for the Teaching of Maths) for Early Years.

What is involved?

This programme is designed to improve the subject knowledge and pedagogical knowledge for all practitioners teaching and supporting the learning of early maths (developing Specialist Knowledge in the Teaching of Maths – SKTM).

For 2025-26 there will be two types of SKTM Early Years pathways:

Pathway One: Number

Pathway Two: Spatial Reasoning (including Pattern, shape, space and measures)

Each pathway consists of the equivalent of four days, spread out over a minimum of two terms. Professional learning and practice development continue throughout, with participants implementing new ideas into their daily practice. Participants will have the opportunity to plan and prepare within the Work Group sessions.

Who can take part?

This project is for Early Years teachers and practitioners who would like to develop their specialist knowledge for teaching maths. It may be particularly relevant for those that have moved phases or have not received maths-specific training.

Benefits

• Your pupils will demonstrate a positive attitude towards maths, being willing to have  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 throughout continuous provision and in everyday routines.

What is the cost?

The programme is fully funded by the Maths Hubs Programme, so is free to participating schools.

To book your place for 2025/26, please complete one or both of the forms below (the first is for the NUMBER pathway, please scroll down for SPATIAL REASONING):