Alexandra Riley, who specialises in maths education within Pearson and authored the Power of Maths report, said: “We want to empower confidence and success in maths among learners and see Britain paving the way on the world stage in STEM. However, to achieve this, we must think innovatively about how to drive changes in perceptions and practice in maths, inside and outside the classroom. This requires people to come together across education and wider society.

“At its heart, the Power of Maths Roundtable and report is about people in mathematics: how people with diverse backgrounds and interests in maths can come together to collaborate and drive change; how we can inspire young people with the power of maths - its utility and beauty; how we can develop confidence and encourage a positive perception of maths across society; and how we can support teachers to develop the very best practice.

“The insights in the report show that maths cannot be separated from the people who teach, learn and use it. We want to encourage reflection on these recommendations and take concrete steps towards effecting changes that will benefit teachers and young people today, and change how maths is used and perceived in future.”

Pearson’s report explores practical teaching elements, such as building knowledge and understanding in maths between KS2 and KS3 with a requirement that trainee teachers spend time across key stages spanning primary and secondary. There is also broader recommendations that affect teachers, business and the wider population. For example, the report outlines that part of the key to changing perceptions of the subject is tackling negative representations of maths in the media and wider society.

Speaking about this issue, maths teacher, comedian and communicator, Kyle Evans, who contributed to the report, said: “To change the culture of maths, we need to eliminate the ‘can’t do’ attitude...Saying that we’re going to do it is one thing, but actually doing it is the important step.

“It’s important that we confront negative representations of maths in the media, such as the infamous L’Oreal advert in which Helen Mirren boldly stated, “maths was never my thing”, and champion maths celebrities, like Carol Vorderman, Rachel Riley and Hannah Fry, who inspire young people to enjoy the subject.”

Tony Staneff, Head of External Initiatives at Trinity Multi-Academy Trust who also attended the Roundtable and contributed to the report, said: “The message that I come away with is: it’s about the teachers, it’s about investing in teachers and making sure that they can teach maths the best that they can. Give them the training, give them the materials - give them everything they need to teach maths the best that they can. I believe there is a bit of a revolution coming...”

Read the full Power of Maths report

Register your interest in attending Pearson’s next free Power of Maths Roundtable

_{[i] Learning and Work Institute’s report 2030 vision: Skills for economic growth and social justice}