A Countdown style quiz set the Maths and literacy brains into action as Chilton Primary in Ramsgate celebrated annual NSPCC Number Day 2026.

The special assembly led by teachers Nicki Cotton and Helen Rowland-Hill involved a competition of four rounds quizzing children on their times table and spelling knowledge.

Competitors showed excellent courage and resilience in applying problem-solving strategies to the challenges. Pupils in the audience were also encouraged to get involved and it was fantastic to see the high levels of engagement from all.

The teams were from the different ‘houses’ - Romans, Normans, Saxons and Vikings. After a closely run competition Normans ended up victorious in first place. All the children received a prize for entering.

Teachers supporting the competition also included scoring undertaken by Dave Wheeler; Luke Oxley was in charge of the Maths corner and Carol Isaac was the dictionary whizz checking the children's answers in the spelling round.

The rest of Number Day was focused around mathematical learning where teachers planned a range of engaging activities linked to their year group skills. The week leading to Number Day saw children focusing on their practical maths skills with no formal recording in books required - on the day they enjoyed a range of practical Maths activities and games.

Meanwhile creative costumes ensured a weird and wonderful colourful display in and around the school including times table rock star characters, with staff joining in too.

Deputy Head of School Hannah Cheshire said: “The aim was to donate to a worthwhile charity through a non-uniform day and raise the children's awareness of the essential work carried out by the NSPCC. The day was entirely Maths themed.”

Head of School Alex McAuley praised the enthusiasm of the children, families and staff for making it a special day in the Chilton calendar.

He said: “It was a fantastic opportunity to support the amazing work of the NSPCC, as well as raise the awareness of the charity for our children. This combined with the opportunity have a day of completing a great range of diverse Maths activities.

“Our children had an enjoyable day of fun learning activities that also supported their teamwork and communication skills too.

“Pupils and families help us support a number of charities throughout each year at Chilton and we are happy to have raised around £200 on the day for the NSPCC with more donations to be counted.”

*Childline : Childline is a counselling service for children and young people up to their 19th birthday in the United Kingdom provided by the NSPCC. Find out more online at Childline.org.uk – contact 0800 1111 for advice and counselling.

*NSPCC charity – more info online at NSPCC.org.uk

Chilton Primary is part of the Viking Academy Trust with partner schools Ramsgate Arts Primary and Upton Junior.