Wales' Mathematics Standards Are Insufficient
Maths skills in Wales lie on the low side, with much uncertainty regarding how well it is taught. The report gives grave concern over the reduction of support and in-service training for math teachers and the inadequate understanding of the implementation of the new Wales Curriculum.
In the latest global PISA tests, Welsh teenagers showed poorer performances, lagging behind their counterparts from other parts of the UK. Too many students do not reach the top marks in mathematics, said Owen Evans, Chief Inspector of Education. "Good math schooling is key not just for each individual's future but also for the wealth of Wales."
The report has found instances where there has been good math teaching and leadership, but mostly, it said, "The quality of teaching of math was too mixed, and students' skills in math were too weak." There were issues where teachers gave activities to keep students busy rather than focusing on what they needed to learn, while others did not challenge students enough. The best practice was when teaching standards were high and students were challenged, but "in most cases, student progress was hindered by some poor teaching."
With respect to the mixed quality of teaching, the inspectors observed that this was due at least partly to reduced subject-specific support at a national level across Wales. They also added that "there is a lack of appropriate groups in Wales for math teachers to gain advice from."
The gap between those students in receipt of free school meals and others in the market grew bigger. Still, this report made an attempt at drawing a picture of math teaching from ages seven to 16, based on tests and school visits. It stated that poor math skills "damage the economy," and "good math skills are more critical today than ever, given that our world is digital and tech-based."
"The lot of students in Wales do not fulfill their full math skill potential due to how teaching and management can vary so much from school to school. We want to aim higher for all learners, and our teachers need proper in-service training and support in the accomplishment of each student," said Mr. Evans.
Dr. Gareth Evans, a math teacher from Llandudno, said, "There are few training opportunities in North Wales." He then added, "A level playing field is important, not a game of chance, investigation on where one lives in Wales, and what training one can access. This is important because it affects the quality." Arthur, aged 16 years, said, "I think math is very important for many people. No matter what job you get, that math skill will really help. Our teachers keep us hooked and explain in detail when things get tough. They work well together."
Garmon, 15, said, "I think math is very important; you need it for many subjects, and it's very handy later on because you can use it in cooking, tech, and mechanics. I've always liked it, even though it can be hard to get. Some topics are very hard, and it helps a lot if the teacher keeps it interesting."
