The Primary Maths Podcast11 Nov 2025

Why Times Tables Still Matter and How to Teach Them Better with Cate Fearn

Few areas of primary maths cause as much debate as times tables.

We all agree they matter, but how pupils develop fluency, understanding and confidence is still up for discussion.

In this episode, Jon Cripwell talks to Cate Fearn — primary educator, maths specialist and creator of Table Stick, a classroom tool designed to make multiplication practice more engaging and sticky.

Together they explore:

Why early experiences of times-table teaching can shape maths attitudes for life
What true fluency means beyond rapid recall – and how efficiency, accuracy and flexibility all play a part
The importance of teaching multiplication conceptually, not just testing it
How manipulatives such as counting sticks, Numicon and ten-frames can deepen understanding
Why little-and-often conceptual teaching beats weekly chanting or random testing
How landmark facts, patterns and connections (like doubles and square numbers) help pupils build lasting recall
Practical strategies for teachers to model quick reasoning without fear or pressure
Cate’s story of transforming her own struggles with maths into a passion for helping others, and the journey behind the Table Stick resource

Whether you’re a maths lead, class teacher, or TA, this conversation will help you rethink how pupils learn their times tables — not just memorise them.

🔗 Links mentioned

Table Stick – Official Website

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