What is Numeracy?

Numeracy is a proficiency, which is developed mainly in mathematics but also in other subjects. It is more than an ability to do basic arithmetic. It involves developing confidence and competence with numbers and measures. It requires understanding of the number system, a repertoire of mathematical techniques, and an ability to solve quantitative or spatial problems in a range of contexts. Numeracy also demands understanding of the ways in which data are gathered by:

• counting and measuring
• presented in graphs
• diagrams
• charts and tables.

We believe the development of numeracy skills is a basic entitlement for all pupils to enable them to achieve a choice-filled life. Poor numeracy skills can hold back students’ progress, not just in Mathematics lessons, and can lower self-esteem. Improving these skills is a whole-college matter.

Why is Numeracy important?

Everyone needs to be numerate to maximise their life chances and to make a positive contribution to society.

We want every pupil to reach a level of numeracy that allows them to follow the career or further education path of their choice when they leave us. We want them to reach a level of numeracy that enables them to realise their full potential and carry out day-to-day numerical tasks with ease.

Pupils at the college experience numeracy in a range of subjects, not just Maths. From weighing ingredients in food technology to calculating average times in PE, all subjects aim to give pupils a grounding in numeracy.

Mathematics teaches us how to make sense of the world around us through developing a child’s ability to calculate, reason and solve problems. It enables children to understand and appreciate relationships and pattern in both number and space in their everyday lives.

Departments within the College understand how topics are taught in Mathematics, meaning that the teaching of topics is more uniform and thus makes students learning easier.

It is hoped that the use of the information provided in the links below will help you understand the way a number of key topics are taught to your children, making it easier for you to support them with their homework and, as a result, improve their progress.

How can you support your child or develop your own Numeracy?

Times-tables underpin all mathematical knowledge. All pupils have access to Times Table Rockstars where they can practice and improve their knowledge and compete for points in timed multiplication challenges. Encourage them to use this regularly and over time this will boost their confidence and knowledge and contribute towards rewards in school. All pupils also have access to Mathswatch where they can work through all areas of Maths. The more they use this website independently the better able they will be to Master all areas. This will also ensure they have fully acquired the knowledge and can apply it to other areas of Maths and real life problems.