Download this article as a pdf
'I’m no good at maths’ is a common trope – and not unique to the early years. But it is a problem which, according to charity National Numeracy, subtracts £20bn from the UK economy every year. The charity, which runs workplace sessions with healthcare assistants and others, estimates about 17 million workers have the mathematical ability of a primary school child.
As part of its remit to improve the population’s maths skills, it has investigated the picture in the early years workforce. ‘The quality of maths learning varies substantially in early years settings and often depends on the qualifications and attitudes of the practitioners,’ says Rachel Malic, communications officer at National Numeracy. ‘Many working with under-fives are unconfident, and have a negative outlook on maths as a result of their own school experiences.’
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
