Maths intervention programme: supporting pupil progress
Maths can be a challenging subject for many pupils, especially those who face disadvantage. At Action Tutoring, we believe that with the right intervention, every pupil can make progress and succeed in maths.
This page outlines the purpose of a maths intervention programme, why it is crucial for schools looking for support to help close their attainment gap, and how Action Tutoring’s maths programme works with schools to make a significant impact at both primary and secondary levels.
What is a maths intervention programme?
A maths intervention, or tutoring, programme is a structured approach to providing extra support to pupils who are behind in maths. The aim is to identify gaps in learning, offer targeted teaching to address these gaps, and help pupils reach the expected levels of attainment for their age group.
Intervention programmes are typically delivered through one-to-one or small group tutoring sessions, which focus on areas where pupils have learning gaps. These sessions are designed to complement regular classroom teaching, giving pupils the opportunity to revisit and reinforce key mathematical concepts.
Why is a maths intervention programme important?
Maths is a foundational subject, critical for a pupil’s academic journey and future success. Falling behind in maths can have a lasting impact, not only on a pupil’s confidence but also on their performance in other subjects and their long-term prospects.
For pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, the risks of not reaching national standards is particularly high. Without additional support, the attainment gap between disadvantaged pupils and their more affluent peers can widen. A well-structured maths intervention programme is essential in closing this gap, ensuring that every pupil, regardless of background, has the opportunity to succeed.
The role of Action Tutoring in maths intervention
At Action Tutoring, we specialise in providing high-quality, evidence-based tutoring to support disadvantaged pupils. Our maths intervention programme is designed to help pupils who have learning gaps in maths, particularly those eligible for Pupil Premium funding. Our approach combines high-impact tutoring with strong school partnerships to deliver targeted support where it is needed most.
We offer maths intervention programmes at both primary and secondary levels, working closely with schools to tailor our programme to the needs of their pupils. Our goal is to raise attainment and close the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.
How Action Tutoring works with schools
At Action Tutoring, we believe that collaboration is key to delivering successful intervention programmes. We work in partnership with schools to ensure our tutoring is fully aligned with the curriculum and the specific needs of each pupil.
Here’s how our maths tutoring programme works:
- Identifying pupils:
Schools work with Action Tutoring to identify pupils who would benefit most from additional support in maths. This includes those who are eligible for Pupil Premium funding or pupils who have been identified as underachieving in maths compared to their peers. - Tailored tutoring sessions:
We provide carefully matched volunteer tutors who are trained to deliver structured tutoring sessions in maths. These sessions are delivered either in-person at the school or online. Tutors focus on key topics where pupils need extra support, such as number fluency, fractions, or algebra and to prepare them for their exams. - Small group support:
Tutoring is typically delivered in small groups (two to three pupils per tutor), ensuring each pupil receives personalised attention. This small group setting also allows for collaborative learning, where pupils can support each other while receiving guidance from their tutor. - Regular progress monitoring:
Schools and Action Tutoring work together to track pupils’ progress throughout the programme. Regular assessments and feedback ensure that tutoring sessions are responsive to pupils’ evolving needs. This ongoing evaluation helps to measure the impact of the intervention and make any necessary adjustments - Curriculum alignment:
Our tutoring sessions are aligned with the national curriculum, ensuring that pupils receive support that directly complements what they are learning in class. This helps to reinforce key concepts and builds pupils’ confidence in applying their skills in the classroom.
You can take a look at our maths curriculum guides here:
Impact of Action Tutoring’s maths intervention at primary level
At primary level, Action Tutoring’s maths intervention programme helps pupils build a strong foundation in key mathematical skills. Early intervention is crucial, as research shows that pupils who fall behind in maths during primary school are less likely to achieve expected standards later on.
Through regular, focused tutoring sessions, pupils develop greater number fluency, improve their problem-solving skills, and gain the confidence they need to succeed in their SATs. Action Tutoring’s interventions at this stage have been shown to significantly raise attainment, with many pupils making accelerated progress.
For schools, this translates into improved SATs results and better overall outcomes for disadvantaged pupils. By closing gaps in learning early, we help pupils transition to secondary school with the skills they need to continue progressing in maths.
The below chart shows pupils meeting expected standard in Key Stage 2 SATs in 2022-23.
Impact at secondary level
At secondary level, maths intervention is equally critical, particularly as pupils prepare for their GCSEs. The pressure to achieve passing grades in maths is high, and pupils with learning gaps in earlier years often face significant challenges in meeting the required standard.
Action Tutoring’s maths intervention at this stage focuses on key GCSE topics, helping pupils to overcome specific barriers to learning. Whether it’s mastering algebra, understanding geometry, or improving problem-solving techniques, our tutors work closely with pupils to ensure they are prepared for their exams.
Our intervention programme has a measurable impact: pupils who participate in our tutoring sessions are more likely to improve their GCSE maths grades, increasing their chances of achieving the crucial grade 4 or above. This can open doors to further education and employment opportunities, making a lasting difference in their futures.
The below chart shows young people achieving grade 4 or above in GCSE maths in 2022-23.
A maths intervention programme is a powerful tool for schools looking to raise the attainment of disadvantaged pupils. Through targeted support, regular monitoring, and collaboration with schools, Action Tutoring delivers effective maths interventions that help pupils achieve their potential.
By working with Action Tutoring, schools can offer their pupils personalised tutoring that complements classroom learning and addresses individual needs. Whether at primary or secondary level, our maths intervention programme is proven to boost attainment, build confidence, and close the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.
Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of pupils, helping them succeed in maths and beyond.
“Our students have benefitted massively from the dedication of the Action Tutoring team. They enjoy the sessions and have been very positive about the impact on their progress in maths.”
Jamie Johnson, Assistant Principal, Saint Gabriel’s College in London
Interested in high impact, low cost tutoring provision?
To find out more about how Action Tutoring can work with your school, you can get in touch below:
