New analysis suggests that the UK is expected to ‘drop’ three places in world numeracy tables by 2030, with a number of OECD countries set to overtake us.1
We believe that Britain can pave the way on the world stage in STEM. This will involve thinking innovatively about how to drive changes in perceptions and practice in maths, inside and outside the classroom. But this responsibility should not fall solely on schools. It requires individuals and organisations to come together across education and wider society.
At Pearson, we gathered leading influencers across education, maths, business and the third sector to debate and unlock contemporary issues facing mathematics today and outlined 10 recommendations in our Power of Maths Roundtable report.
From showcasing the joy of the subject to busting myths, the five key steps for school leaders to consider when it comes to enhancing perceptions of maths and its teaching in schools today are explored below:
Look out for opportunities to collaborate
There can be many divisions in maths: between primary and secondary schools; between the competing demands of preparing for exams and developing a rich understanding of the subject; and between pedagogies adopted by the UK and other high-performing jurisdictions.
However, when it comes to maths education, there really is more that unites us than divides us. There are plenty of examples of people and organisations working together to transform the maths landscape. It’s important to look out for opportunities to collaborate, by capitalising on your familiar networks and looking further afield for new partnerships.
For instance, are your Specialist Leaders of Education (SLEs) making the most of the NCETM Maths SLE School Improvement Support Programme? The Teaching Schools Council and Maths Hubs have worked together to provide a programme that supports mathematics SLEs to develop their approach to maths school improvement, including aligning with approaches used in the Maths Hubs Programme.