STUDY STRENGTHS

Maths is the most popular A-level subject at Downe House, in line with the national trend, with 30% of our Sixth Formers currently studying it (and 17% of them study further maths, too). I spoke recently to our Head of Maths Rob Barnes about this and he told me: “A-level mathematics is a good deal more challenging than GCSE. A good grade in maths at GCSE does not necessarily translate into one at A level. So, the reality is that it isn’t an ideal choice for many pupils.”

Rishi Sunak’s recent comments around pupils studying maths through school appear to have been influenced by the conclusions of the recent Times Education Commission. Head of Ofsted Amanda Spielman backed this idea, also pointing out that the UK is unusual in not insisting that both maths and home languages are studied until 18. Yet Mr Sunak’s statement lacked specifics. He simply said that leaving school without basic numeracy skills was “letting children down”.

My view is more in line with the former education minister of Finland Olli-Pekka Heinonen. Finland, of course, is often hailed as having a world-class school curriculum. While Heinonen emphasises the need for maths skills, he also highlights that the modern world requires independent learners and imaginative problem solvers. If we continue to allow our pupils to build on their key strengths, they will be better placed to develop focused independence and self-confidence.

In fact, the current trend across all UK schools is for pupils to choose STEM subjects over humanities. In 2022, the four most popular A-level subjects (in 1-4 order) were mathematics, psychology, biology and chemistry. In truth, AI and computerisation are making maths skills less critical to many roles – especially accountancy, architecture, engineering, and computing.

So a resurgence of the humanities may be more likely in the coming years, particularly as the core skills involved – independence of thought, communication and imagination – are becoming more valuable.

English, chemistry and economics are our next most popular A levels and the latter two subjects include considerable mathematical content. Many other A-level subjects require some maths, too, so pupils are furthering their numeracy skills post 16 using a variety of routes. We are constantly looking for new ways for our pupils to widen their skillset. Our Learning for Life programme includes practical numeracy, such as personal finance and managing domestic expenses. Many of our Sixth Formers have opted to complete our school’s mini-MBA, which requires them to consider various aspects of financial planning, tax, economics and accounting.

Co-curricular, social and cultural activities are also another area where schools continue to ensure young people progress their numeracy skills in the real world. Whether planning a charity auction or organising a house event, pupils gain practical insight into areas like budgets and fundraising. Perhaps even more importantly, taking numeracy outside of maths lessons and applying it to social scenarios provides the time, scope and environment for pupils to develop fully as individuals, and to learn to work with and get along with others – surely the key ingredients to succeeding in our brave new world?