The Royal Society has today published its recommendations for a radical reform of maths education from early years and throughout compulsory education, to address the growing need for data skills in the workplace and in everyday life.
The report, a culmination of the Mathematical Futures programme, sets out a radically new approach to mathematical education, called ‘mathematical and data education’. It outlines how a reformed mathematical education system will equip citizens with the capabilities, skills, adaptability, and resilience they need to thrive in a world where mathematics and data play increasingly important roles in everyone’s lives.
Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society, said: “The current mathematical education system serves some well, but it fails too many. Around half of adults in the UK are no better with numbers than a child leaving primary school. We know that numeracy problems are particularly acute in the UK’s poorest places, which has knock-on negative impacts on health, social wellbeing and an individual’s economic prosperity.
“Providing all young people with access to mathematical and data skills is crucial if the Government is to achieve its mission of breaking down the barriers to opportunity. The curriculum review must therefore be bold in its ambition. If we get reform right now, it will stand the test of time.”
Read the full report on the Royal Society website.
Last updated 3 September 2024