Maths Specialist Knowledge - Sussex Maths Hub Launches SKTM TA Programme 2025–26!

We were thrilled to welcome over 34 Teaching Assistants from 18 schools across

Sussex to the launch of this year’s Specialist Knowledge for Teaching Mathematics (SKTM) – TA Programme.

Throughout the year, our TAs will work collaboratively to deepen their specialist knowledge. In our first session we explored number sense — the ability to understand number relationships, subitising, place value, patterns, and the structures that underpin early calculation. Number sense is the foundation for confident, fluent and flexible mathematical thinking.

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💬 What did participants say?

Our first session was full of energy, collaboration, and practical ideas which TAs are already excited to take back to their classrooms:

✨ “So many useful ideas I can put into practice tomorrow!”

✨ “I finally understand why things are taught the way they are — it all makes sense now.”

✨ “The games and resources were brilliant — I can’t wait to share them with my teacher.”

✨ “I feel 100% more confident. I didn’t know anything before today.”

✨ “Talking with other TAs and sharing strategies was incredibly valuable.”

Over the coming months, TAs will continue to:

• Strengthen their understanding of key mathematical concepts

• Build confidence with manipulatives, representations and language

• Explore how to support children’s mathematical thinking

• Improve outcomes for pupils — academically and in their engagement, confidence and enjoyment of maths

• Grow their own professional identity and expertise

Thank you to all the wonderful TAs who joined us — your enthusiasm, commitment and curiosity were inspiring. We can’t wait to continue this journey with you!