Long division: a calm, step-by-step approach

Long division is one of the few primary topics where the method is genuinely long. That is why it needs slow, patient teaching rather than a page of practice.

Say the four questions every time

For 384 ÷ 6: how many 6s in 38? How many left over? Bring down. How many 6s in the new number? Repeating the same four questions out loud builds the rhythm.

Use what they know

Children who are fluent in 6 times tables can estimate the digit for each step instead of guessing. Fluency earlier in primary school pays off exactly here.

Reduce the writing load

Lining up columns on squared paper, one digit per square, removes a surprising amount of error. So does writing the multiplication facts they might need at the side of the page.

If your child is in Year 6 and still shaky, this is worth ten minutes a week with an adult — it unlocks fractions, decimals and secondary algebra.