Maths Champions Programme
Transform maths learning in your early years setting
The Maths Champions Programme helps early years teams build confidence in teaching maths and create rich, play-based maths experiences for children.
Delivered by National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) and funded by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) and the Department for Education (DfE), this fully funded 12-month programme gives your setting expert training, practical resources, and ongoing support.
Proven impact for children
Independent evaluation by EEF found that children in settings taking part made:
- +3 months additional progress in maths and language
- +6 months additional progress in maths for children eligible for EYPP
This programme supports practitioners to embed maths naturally through play, routines and everyday interactions.
What your setting will gain
Your team will receive expert guidance and practical tools to strengthen maths across the whole setting.
Expert training
- Live online induction with NDNA specialists
- Two in-depth maths courses led by early maths expert Dr Sue Gifford
Practical tools for everyday practice
- Maths environment audits and action planning
- 10+ play-based maths activities ready to use in your setting
- Resources to embed maths across daily routines
Ongoing support
- 1-to-1 support from an NDNA adviser
- Webinars and guidance throughout the year
- Impact tracking tools to measure progress
All support and training is provided at no cost for eligible settings.
Who can take part?
The programme is open to:
- PVI nurseries
- Maintained nursery schools
- Children’s centres
- School-based nurseries
To take part, settings must:
- Offer funded places for 3- and 4-year-olds (15+ hours per week)
- Nominate a Level 3 Maths Champion and Deputy Maths Champion
- Not currently be using Maths Champions or have taken part in the last two years
Settings with more than 10% EYPP children may be prioritised.
How to get involved
Joining the programme is quick and simple:
- Submit a short Expression of Interest
- Attend an optional information session with NDNA
- Confirm your cohort and induction date
- New cohorts start between February and June 2026.
Watch these short videos to see how Maths Champions is being implemented in Thornhill Community Pre-school and Hey Days Nursery and Preschool.
Ready to strengthen maths in your setting?
Places are limited and demand is high. Apply now — it only takes a few minutes.
Upcoming information sessions
If you’ve already registered – or are thinking about joining – we’d love to invite you to our short online Q&A sessions. Click the dates below to register for the session that suits you best:
March 2026
Tuesday 24th March, 16:00-16:30pm
Friday 27th March, 10:00-10:30am
Monday 30th March, 14:00-14:30pm
April 2026
Wednesday 1st April, 10:00-10:30am
Friday 10th April, 11:00-11:30am
Monday 13th April, 16:00-16:30pm
Wednesday 15th April, 12:30-13:00pm
Wednesday 22nd April, 16:00-16:30pm