Reception maths baseline assessment pack – Autumn Weeks 1-2

Use this Reception maths baseline assessment pack during the first two weeks of the Autumn term to build a picture of pupils’ early mathematical understanding. Through practical activities, observation and discussion, teachers can identify what pupils already understand about number, shape and pattern before beginning the main Reception maths sequence.

This is an informal maths baseline assessment rather than the statutory Reception Baseline Assessment (RBA). It is designed to give teachers useful classroom information about pupils’ starting points, helping to inform planning and identify areas that may need further support or challenge.

The activities draw on learning from before Reception and allow pupils to demonstrate their understanding through practical tasks and guided interaction rather than a formal test. The emphasis is on observing what each pupil can do and using this information to support progress during the Reception year.

What’s included in the Reception maths baseline assessment?

• Baseline maths activities covering number, pattern and shape
• Number and picture matching cards from 0 to 10
• 2D shape recognition activities
• Prompts for gathering evidence through practical activities and guided interactions
• Informal recording suggestions to support teacher observations

Establishing a starting point for Reception maths

Using these activities during Autumn Weeks 1 and 2 can help teachers identify strengths, gaps and different starting points before moving into the main maths blocks. The information gathered can then be used alongside ongoing observation to support appropriate teaching and track progress over time.

This assessment pack sits at the beginning of Maths Masters Reception maths. See what comes next in our Reception Autumn maths planning and resources.