What are KIRFs and why are they important?

KIRFs are the 'Key Instant Recall Facts' that children need to secure throughout their primary years. They are carefully chosen for each half term to ensure they are aligned with our curriculum. KIRFs develop the mental maths skills that underpin much of children’s learning in mathematics. They include key number facts such as number bonds, doubling and halving, and times tables. When children have quick access to a bank of facts, which incur little cost to working memory, they have more capacity to think about more complex problems that draw on these facts. Without regular rehearsal, these facts are often forgotten so it is essential they are practised regularly and embedded in children’s long-term memory so they can be recalled quickly and accurately.

Secure and fluent recall of these facts helps children to:

• Calculate more efficiently

• Focus on solving problems rather than basic calculations

• Develop strong number sense

• Access more complex areas of the maths curriculum with confidence

When children move on to written methods, having these facts embedded makes a significant difference to their success.

How do KIRFs work?

Each half term, children focus on a specific set of KIRFs to learn and practise both at school and at home.

These will be:

• Shared with you each half term

• Available on the school website

• Supported with a ‘how to help at home’ guide for each year group

Teachers will regularly practise these in school and assess how securely children can recall them.

How can I support my child?

KIRFs are not designed to be time-consuming and can be practised anywhere as part of everyday routines.

You can help your child by:

• Asking quick-fire questions

• Practising during car journeys, walks or daily routines

• Using games, songs or flashcards

• Encouraging fast and confident recall

Regular practice helps children retain these facts and develop long-term fluency.