For the attention of the KS3 Maths Coordinator
Close the Key Stage 3 maths gap with targeted intervention
• Ideal for Year 7 catch-up
• Includes over 900 questions per book
Only £2.50 per book
• Based on the best-selling Mental Arithmetic series
ESSENTIAL MENTAL ARITHMETIC
A new edition of the bestselling Schofield & Sims Mental Arithmetic series, aimed at Key Stage 3 maths recovery and consolidation.
Essential Mental Arithmetic provides students with intensive and sustained maths practice matched to individual ability levels. Each book features over 900 differentiated maths questions to develop the essential numeracy skills and problem-solving strategies that students need for secondary school and for life.
Six workbooks to close the Key Stage 3 gap
The series comprises six graded workbooks designed to close the foundational knowledge gap for students starting Key Stage 3, systematically covering the essential mental maths skills from the primary curriculum required for success in secondary maths. Each book delivers:
• a personalised learning path matched to ability
• outcome-assessed tests to track progress
• targeted practice to build mental agility and confidence.
Getting started with Essential Mental Arithmetic
The series is organised by ability rather than age. We recommend using the free Entry test to identify the most suitable starting point for each student before beginning regular practice.
Closing the Key Stage 3 gap through intelligent practice
The pedagogy behind Essential Mental Arithmetic was developed by experts who recognised that effective maths fluency requires more than repetition. Using principles rooted in variation theory and intelligent practice, the series features a unique ‘A, B, C’ format that encourages students to think mathematically and make connections between different question types. This approach delivers fast, focused intervention on core Key Stage 2 skills. The carefully graded tests ensure that every student is appropriately challenged, building the skills and confidence needed for the Key Stage 3 curriculum.
Part A
Questions where use of language is kept to a minimum.
Part B
Questions based on mathematical vocabulary and symbols.
Part C
Questions featuring one- and two-step word problems.
How to use Essential Mental Arithmetic
1 Initial assessment – Identify where students are working using the Entry Tests available as a free digital download on the Schofield & Sims website.
2 Daily maths practice – Schedule 10–20 minutes a day for students to work through part of a test, either as part of daily maths lessons or as homework.
3
Marking and feedback – Organise weekly group marking sessions to quickly identify areas of difficulty and provide immediate feedback.
Essential Mental Arithmetic is a highly effective way of providing additional support to students who have not met age-related expectations in maths at the end of Year 6. Many students require extra help at the start of secondary school to build a solid understanding of maths basics and bring them up to speed with the Key Stage 3 curriculum.
Special introductory price
To celebrate the launch of Essential Mental Arithmetic, we’re offering a special discounted price of just £2.50 per book for school customers.
To claim this offer, use discount code ESSENTIAL250 at checkout on the Schofield & Sims website. Alternatively, contact us by phone: 01484 601718 or email: sales@schofieldandsims.co.uk
Pupil Books
Why choose Essential Mental Arithmetic?
• proven track record – the bestselling Mental Arithmetic series, now adapted for Key Stage 3
• cost-effective – from £2.50 per book, making it accessible for schools of all sizes
• simple to use – ready-to-use tests require just 10–20 minutes per session
• clear progression – carefully graded content builds confidence and fluency systematically.
Request a FREE evaluation set of all six books by phone: 01484 607080 email: sales@schofieldandsims.co.uk or online: www.schofieldandsims.co.uk