FAQ and answers
Frequently asked questions
If you have any further questions which haven’t been covered below, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we will be happy to help. Annette & Becky
Email : numbertrain@hotmail.com
What is Number Train?
Number Train began in 2017 and is a series of 36 maths sessions specifically designed for preschool children to ensure they have strong foundations in maths and feel confident before starting school. Each week, the children board the imaginary Number Train as it takes them on a mathematical journey of discovery. They learn about numbers, practise counting and use the mathematical language of shape, position and direction through songs, games and art activities. No two weeks are the same so the children are always very excited to board the train each week to see where they are going. The programme was designed and is delivered by an outstanding, experienced primary school teacher with a specialism in maths.
What age does my child need to be to attend Number Train?
Number Train was originally designed for children aged 3 years+ however over the last few years, several children have started when they were 2 and a half years old and attended until starting school. As all children develop differently, it is up to each individual parent to decide if their child is ready so by coming along to a trial session, parents can decide for themselves.
Do you offer a TASTER session?
Yes, as parent ourselves, we feel that attending a trial initially is very important. All children are different, and by attending a taster session, you can see if your child likes the class and if they are ready for all of the activities on offer. There is no obligation to sign up after attending a trial but most parents do as they realise how much the classes have to offer.
How much are the classes?
Face to face classes are currently £9 per session (2022-23) and after a taster session, you can book onto the block of sessions for that half term. (approx 6 weeks per half term) but you can join midway through if there is availability.
Can I pay for just one session at a time?
Due to the popularity of Number Train and limited availability, we are unable to offer ‘pay as you go’ where you pay for just one session at a time. We only accept block bookings a half term at a time. Number Train is also a carefully planned programme of lessons which link together with progression over the year. Therefore, for your child to get the most of the classes, attending a series of consecutive lessons is highly recommended. Many parents start by signing up to a block in the first instance, see the benefits and end up staying until the summer before their child starts school.
Where are the sessions?
We are located in North Leeds and sessions are currently held in Horsforth, Meanwood and Oakwood. These locations cater for families travelling from different parts of Leeds, Bradford, Wetherby, Otley, Ilkley, Harrogate, Huddersfield and York. All venues used have ample free parking.
How long does each session last?
The sessions last approximately 1 hour and include a mix of singing, dancing, action songs, games, stories, art & craft and free playtime. All activities include an element of maths as well as covering many other skills from the Early Years Curriculum.
Do parent/carers stay with their child?
Yes, an adult attends with their child each week to offer any additional support/ encouragement as and when required. The classes have been designed to help both adults and children so they can enjoy Number Train themes together and positive learning relationships are fostered from an early age.
Can I bring a younger sibling?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a younger sibling along and if they are under 2 years old, they are free of charge. Siblings over 2 years old are charged at 50% of the normal fees. (£4.50 per session during 2022-23) Due to limited capacity rules, please let me know in advance if you intend to bring a younger sibling so I can account for them in my total numbers. It is the parents responsibility to watch their younger siblings as their may be toys which the older child uses which have small parts.
How many children are in each class?
We take a maximum of 14 preschool children in one class. From my experience, in the venues being used, this is the optimum number. This does not include younger siblings.
Which days of the week are sessions running?
Number Train sessions are on every week day during term time only. See full timetable for exact location and times.
What happens if I cannot attend the session, will I be refunded?
If you are unable to attend your session for any reason, please let me know in advance where possible. Sadly, I cannot refund you but you can watch the online video instead for no extra cost.
The session I would like to attend is full, can I join a waiting list?
Yes, with many sessions already full, I keep a list of people who are interested in attending. As soon as a place becomes available I can make contact with the first person on the waiting list.
Can I join at any time during the year?
Yes, you can join Number Train at any time however the ideal time to start is September when we start the programme so they have the full coverage before starting school. Getting in touch a few months earlier is always worthwhile as certain classes fill very quickly in the Autumn term (10am sessions on Mon, Wed and Fri being the most popular).
Were you primary school teachers before?
Yes, we both trained to be teachers and have worked in Primary Education for many years.
Annette trained at Warwick University back in 2001, after graduating from University of Leeds (BSc Maths & Management). During her teaching career, she worked in three outstanding primary schools in Coventry, Brixton and Leeds working across all year groups. She left classroom teaching in 2016 and set up Number Train in 2017 knowing how quickly the maths curriculum goes in school and the importance of having strong foundations.
Becky trained to be a primary school teacher at Leeds Beckett University (BEd Primary Education) in 2009 and taught for 13 years in East Leeds specialising in Early Years and Key Stage One. Becky left teaching in 2021 to spend more time with her own children and became a Number Train driver in 2022. After attending the classes with two of her own children, she saw the benefits and loved how maths was integrated into every activity!
