Problem solving is one of those phrases we all use in maths – but do we actually mean the same thing when we say it?

Too often, it becomes shorthand for a set of word problems at the end of a lesson, or a Friday afternoon activity once the “real maths” is done. But what if problem solving isn’t a type of task at all? What if it’s a way of thinking, behaving, and approaching mathematics – something that needs to be explicitly taught, modelled, and valued every day?

In this episode of The Primary Maths Podcast, I’m joined by Steve Lomax and Tom Manners for a wide-ranging conversation about what problem solving really is, and why so many pupils struggle with unfamiliar problems even when the maths content itself is secure.

We explore:

• the difference between giving children problems and teaching them how to be problem solvers
• why problem solving cannot be reduced to word problems or strategy posters
• the role of mathematical habits such as noticing, conjecturing, visualising, tinkering, and pattern spotting
• how metacognition and teacher modelling shape pupils’ willingness to have a go
• why curriculum design, classroom culture, and time allocation matter more than quick fixes
• how SATs, fluency, and mastery are often misunderstood in relation to problem solving

We also discuss resilience, safe classroom environments, cognitive diversity, and why struggle, when handled well, is not something to be avoided but something to be taught through.

About the guests

Steve Lomax has worked with headteachers, subject leaders, teachers, and pupils for over thirty years. He has held roles including Senior Lead for the GLOW Maths Hub, SCITT Maths Lead, Mathematics Adviser for Gloucestershire, AST, and SLE. Steve is also an NPQ and ECF Facilitator for the Balcarras Teaching School Hub. He co-founded CanDoMaths and is passionate about fostering inclusive “can do” attitudes so that all children can enjoy and achieve in mathematics.

Tom Manners works in school improvement across several roles, including Trust Maths Lead and Evidence Lead in Education for the Education Endowment Foundation. He is an NCETM PD Lead and Teaching for Mastery Specialist through the Central Maths Hub. Alongside this, Tom trains new teachers as a PGCE Tutor at Arthur Terry SCITT and Associate Lecturer for Birmingham City University. He also supports schools on a freelance basis and shares his writing and resources online.

Get in touch

If you have thoughts on this episode, questions you would like us to explore, or ideas for future guests or themes, email the show at [email protected]