Thriving through.. Mathematics

Katie Crisp, one of our passionate Senior School mathematics teachers, opened the session by welcoming parents to their very own Grade 6 math class. She explained that for the next hour, the parents would become students, diving into the topic of long multiplication.

Each parent received a card and joined a small group to tackle a problem collaboratively at our vertical whiteboards. The room quickly filled with energy and laughter as parents discussed strategies, made calculations, and supported one another. Afterward, they reflected using a think–pair–share routine, considering how it felt to learn this way, what skills they were developing, and whether anyone in their group had used a strategy they hadn’t thought of.

Katie then led a thought-provoking discussion comparing the “old way” of teaching mathematics with today’s collaborative, inquiry-based approach. She noted that in traditional classrooms, nearly 80% of students weren’t truly learning, often focused more on getting the right answer than understanding the process, with the teacher doing most of the talking and thinking. In contrast, the new way emphasises thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and valuing the journey of learning over simply being correct, and this way engages far more learners.

Katie also shared her personal math journey, how positive experiences and supportive people shaped her love for the subject. She reminded parents that confidence in math isn’t about genetics, but rather about positive experiences, including encouragement from parents, supportive teachers, and peers who share enthusiasm for learning. These experiences build a growth mindset - something we can foster both at home and at school.

Next, Jamie Phillips, one of our Grade 1 teachers, connected the ideas to our Junior School experience. She highlighted that at ISU, math is both fun and challenging — and that it’s okay to sit with the struggle. Mistakes are celebrated as part of the learning process. “We don’t erase; we strike through,” she explained, emphasising the importance of making thinking visible and embracing missteps as opportunities for growth.

Jamie then introduced the ISU Mathematics Philosophy Statement, inviting parents to select a word or phrase that resonated most with them and share their reflections in small groups. This sparked meaningful discussions about what mathematics learning should feel like for children today - curious, collaborative, and flexible thinkers.

We then watched our short video Learning Mathematics at ISU, which captures the joy, curiosity, and collaboration that define math learning in the Junior School.

Watch the video: Mathematics Inside the Classroom

Jamie shared that one of the most interesting ways we begin a lesson in Grade 1 is when she asks her students, “Where did you see math today?” She highlighted the importance of parents supporting their child(ren)’s mathematical journey at home - through asking similar questions,  positive reinforcement, playing games, and everyday conversations about math.

In our upcoming Parent Newsletter, we will share a folder full of fun and practical ideas to promote math learning at home.

Finally, we’re excited to announce that the next Parent Forum will focus on Thriving Through Reading. We hope to see many of you there as we continue exploring ways to support our children’s learning and growth together.

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