Unlocking the Secrets to Times Tables Success in Primary Schools
- Primary Resources Hub
- Nov 30, 2025
- 3 min read
Teaching times tables is one of the most important – and sometimes challenging – aspects of primary maths. Mastery of multiplication facts sets the foundation for so many key areas, from division and fractions to area, problem-solving, and mental arithmetic.
So, how can schools teach times tables more effectively, and how can we ensure children not only memorise them, but understand and apply them?
Here at Primary Resources Hub, we’re passionate about helping teachers make maths meaningful, engaging, and fun. In this blog, we’ll explore tried-and-tested strategies to boost times tables success – plus share some brilliant times tables resources to support your teaching.
Why Times Tables Matter
Children who know their times tables by heart are more confident when tackling maths challenges. The DfE’s Multiplication Tables Check (MTC) reinforces the importance of automatic recall – but the benefits go far beyond Year 4.
Fluency with multiplication facts supports:
Problem solving
Mental maths
Written methods
Speed and accuracy
Real-life applications (like money and measures)
5 Top Tips for Teaching Times Tables Effectively
1. Start with understanding, not chanting
Before jumping into repetition, help children understand what multiplication is. Use arrays, number lines, and repeated addition to build conceptual understanding.
2. Build fluency one step at a time
Focus on one times table at a time and consolidate before moving on. The 10s, 5s, and 2s are usually taught first, followed by 3s, 4s, 8s, and others. Use songs, patterns, and visual aids to support retention.
3. Make it active and engaging
Use games, mini-challenges, and quick-fire quizzes. Keep it fun! Short daily bursts are more effective than long weekly sessions.
4. Use technology and print together
Online games are brilliant, but so are physical worksheets that allow children to write, reflect, and track their progress.
5. Revisit regularly
Spaced practice is key. Revisit tables over time to strengthen long-term memory. Don’t assume once they’ve got it, it’ll stick forever!
Struggling with Confidence? You’re Not Alone
Lots of children feel anxious about times tables, and that’s okay. The key is to build small wins and celebrate progress. Tracking improvement and giving children opportunities to "beat their score" can be incredibly motivating.
That’s exactly why we created our Times Tables resources.
📘 Our Times Tables Products
We’ve developed a range of digital Times Tables products designed to:
✅ Improve fluency
✅ Build confidence
✅ Provide weekly structure
✅ Track progress over time
✅ Reduce workload for teachers
Designed to help children catch up fast. Perfect for intervention groups, this printable resource helps identify and close gaps with focused practice.
Fun, structured weekly times tables activities that children love. Each year group pack is carefully pitched to build fluency and accuracy over time – and comes with answer sheets too!
Bring the Joy Back to Times Tables
Whether you’re a Year 2 teacher laying the foundations or a Year 6 teacher helping children revise for SATs, effective times tables teaching makes a real difference. With the right approach – and the right resources – you can turn groans into grins and confidence into mastery.
Explore all our Times Tables resources today on the Primary Resources Hub, and help your children feel times tables proud!
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