Rishi Sunak, the UK Chancellor, has announced a review into ensuring pupils in England study maths up to the age of 18, without making an A-Level in the subject compulsory. The advisory group will consider what maths skills students need and whether a new maths qualification is necessary.
In a speech in London, Mr Sunak argued an “anti-maths mindset” is damaging the economy. To address this, he proposed introducing a voluntary and fully funded qualification for teachers leading maths in primary schools and extending Maths Hubs – groups aimed at improving the teaching of maths.
Labour responded by calling for more maths teachers and an end to tax breaks for private schools. Mr Sunak acknowledged that his aspiration will not be achieved before the next general election.
Experts have questioned the plan, with National Numeracy arguing it needs to start much earlier than 16. The Royal Society said it was “reassuring” to hear of the Prime Minister’s plans, but warned that a “radical reform” of the way maths is taught “will not be easy”.
In 2019, the UK was ranked 18th in the world for attainment in maths, based on tests taken by 15-year-olds. This highlights the need for urgent action to improve numeracy skills.
Rishi Sunak’s announcement of a review into ensuring pupils in England study maths up to the age of 18 is a welcome step towards addressing the UK’s poor performance in maths. An advisory group will consider what maths skills students need and whether a new maths qualification is necessary.
The Chancellor argued an “anti-maths mindset” is damaging the economy and proposed introducing a voluntary and fully funded qualification for teachers leading maths in primary schools and extending Maths Hubs. Labour responded by calling for more maths teachers and an end to tax breaks for private schools.
Experts have raised concerns about the plan, with National Numeracy arguing it needs to start much earlier than 16. The Royal Society warned that a “radical reform” of the way maths is taught “will not be easy”.
The UK’s ranking of 18th in the world for attainment in maths shows the urgent need for action. It is hoped that Mr Sunak’s review will lead to improved numeracy skills among young people and help to boost the economy.