Investing in High-Quality Maths Programmes: A Catalyst for Economic Growth 

The UK’s economic future depends on its ability to innovate, compete, and grow in an increasingly complex global market. At the heart of this ambition lies a vital, yet often overlooked, foundation: high-quality maths education. Strong mathematical skills are critical to the areas the government has identified as priority areas, including AI, advanced manufacturing and clean energy.  If we want to ensure sustainable economic growth, we must invest in developing strong mathematical skills from the early years through post-16 pathways. 

The Role of Maths in Economic Growth 

Mathematics is the bedrock of many of the UK’s most vital industries, from technology and engineering to finance and data science. A workforce proficient in maths is better equipped to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and contribute to productivity gains across sectors. In short, if we are serious about economic growth, we must be equally serious about maths education. 

Evidence already shows that sustained investment in maths programmes yields results. England has moved from 18th to 6th place in the TIMMS global mathematics rankings over the past two decades, thanks to initiatives such as the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics (NCETM) including the Maths Hubs network. These structured, well-funded programmes have provided teachers with the tools and training needed to improve pupil outcomes and ensuring a higher level of mathematical competence for those entering the workforce. 

The Economic Case for Maths Investment 

The economic benefits of improving maths attainment are well-documented. Studies by the Department for Education have shown that a one-grade improvement in GCSE Maths can result in an increase of £14,200 in lifetime earnings per student. Scaling this impact across the entire education system represents a significant boost to the economy, creating a more skilled workforce capable of driving higher productivity and innovation. 

Moreover, strengthening maths education can help bridge the gender gap in STEM careers. Currently, Year 9 girls in England score, on average, 26 points lower than boys in international mathematics assessments—the largest gender gap recorded across 40 participating countries. Addressing this disparity through targeted investment would not only improve overall attainment levels but also unlock economic potential by encouraging more young women to pursue careers in maths-related fields. 

A Strategic Approach to Maths Education 

To maximise the impact of maths education on economic growth, policymakers must focus on four key areas: 

1. Prioritising Early Years Maths Education: The Government’s focus on school readiness as part of its milestone within the opportunity mission recognises that numeracy foundations in early childhood are a key predictor of later academic success. Investing in early years maths interventions will help close attainment gaps before they widen, ensuring that all students are set up for success from the outset. 
2. Protecting and Expanding Maths Hub Funding: The Maths Hub network has played a crucial role in improving teaching standards and student outcomes. Continued investment is essential to ensure that all schools, particularly those in disadvantaged areas, have access to high-quality resources and professional development opportunities. This could include expanded CPD opportunities such as reintroducing STEM CPD (especially Physics for non-subject specialists) and other adjacent subjects. 
3. Strengthening Post-16 Maths Pathways: Too many students who do not achieve a Grade 4 in GCSE Maths are left without viable routes to continue their mathematical development. Expanding support for post-16 maths education, including Core Maths and vocational pathways, is critical to ensuring that all young people acquire the numeracy skills needed for employment. 
4. Aligning Maths Education with Industrial Strategy: The UK’s industrial strategy must be closely linked with education policy to ensure that maths education is producing a workforce ready for the demands of the future. Stronger partnerships between businesses, universities, and schools can help students see the real-world applications of maths and encourage greater engagement with the subject. 

Now is not the time to step back from our commitment to high-quality maths education. Instead, we should be looking at how to build on our successes and drive further improvements that will benefit both individuals and the wider economy. England has made impressive strides in maths attainment, but sustained investment is necessary to maintain this momentum and ensure that the country remains competitive on the global stage. 

Policymakers, educators, and industry leaders must work together to champion the importance of maths education. By making strategic investments today, we can equip the next generation with the skills they need to thrive—driving economic growth, enhancing social mobility, and securing the UK’s future prosperity.