Early Maths for Children with Vision Impairment or SEND

Mathematical learning begins long before children are introduced to formal number work. It develops through everyday experiences, exploration, problem-solving and meaningful interactions with the world around them.

The Early Maths for Children with SEND and Vision Impairment Course is a practical online training programme designed to help practitioners develop a deeper understanding of early mathematical concepts and how they can be supported through everyday learning opportunities.

Designed for educators, support staff and professionals working with children and young people with vision impairment, SEND and complex learning needs, the course explores how mathematical understanding develops and provides practical strategies to help children build strong foundations for future learning.

The course places a strong emphasis on using practical, low-cost resources to support learning. Participants are introduced to a wide range of activities and ideas that can be implemented immediately using everyday classroom materials and readily available resources.  These practical approaches help children build concrete understanding of mathematical concepts before moving on to more abstract learning.

Participants leave with practical activities, observation ideas, low-cost resource suggestions and greater confidence in supporting early mathematical development across educational settings.

What Practitioners Say About the Course

“Encourages understanding across the school of the need for concrete concepts. Also lots of ideas for maths games to use with peers. Thank you, I am inspired!”

Who Is This Course For?

This course is ideal for:

• QTVIs
• QTMSIs
• Teachers
• Teaching Assistants
• SENCOs
• ALN Staff
• Early Years Practitioners
• Learning Support Assistants
• Therapists
• Professionals supporting children and young people with SEND and vision impairment

The course is suitable for both mainstream and specialist educational settings.

What You Will Learn

During the course participants will explore:

Understanding Early Mathematical Development

• How mathematical concepts develop
• Early problem-solving skills
• Learning through exploration and play
• Understanding mathematical thinking

Building Strong Mathematical Foundations

• Number awareness
• Counting and quantity
• Matching and sorting
• Patterns and sequences
• Comparing and classifying

Supporting Learners with SEND and Vision Impairment

• Developing concepts through real experiences
• Creating meaningful opportunities for mathematical learning
• Adapting activities and resources
• Supporting participation and engagement

Practical Strategies and Resource Ideas You Can Use Immediately

Participants will leave with practical approaches and low-cost resource ideas that can be implemented immediately, including:

• Everyday maths activities
• Number and quantity games
• Matching and sorting activities
• Pattern and sequencing tasks
• Concept development opportunities
• Inclusive teaching strategies
• Low-cost sensory and tactile maths resources
• Classroom activities using everyday objects
• Resource adaptations for learners with vision impairment and SEND

All strategies are designed to be practical, achievable and effective within everyday educational settings and do not rely on expensive specialist equipment.

Structure and Delivery

The course combines contemporary understanding of early mathematical development with practical approaches that can be implemented immediately in educational settings.

Participants explore how mathematical concepts can be developed through everyday experiences rather than isolated teaching activities.

The course focuses on:

• Concept development
• Mathematical understanding
• Problem-solving
• Exploration and discovery
• Participation and engagement
• Meaningful learning opportunities

Throughout the training, participants are introduced to a wide range of low-cost resources and practical activities that demonstrate how early mathematical concepts can be developed through everyday learning experiences.

Practical examples show how mathematical learning can be embedded naturally across the curriculum and throughout the school day.

Learning Objectives

1. Develop an Understanding of Early Mathematical Development

Success Criteria

• Understand how mathematical concepts develop.
• Recognise the importance of early experiences in mathematical learning.
• Identify key foundations for future mathematical understanding.

2. Develop Practical Strategies for Teaching Early Maths

Success Criteria

• Identify opportunities for mathematical learning throughout the day.
• Select activities that support concept development.
• Adapt approaches for children with SEND and vision impairment.

3. Promote Meaningful Mathematical Learning

Success Criteria

• Create engaging and accessible activities.
• Support participation and confidence.
• Develop mathematical understanding through real-life experiences.

Handouts and Resources

Participants receive a comprehensive downloadable folder containing practical activities, planning ideas, observation tools and resource sheets.

The materials are designed to provide ongoing support and can be used long after the course has finished.

Recordings of Sessions

Sessions are recorded and made available for one week following each session for registered participants.

Recordings are provided as an additional benefit and are not included within the course fee. Participants are encouraged to attend all live sessions whenever possible.