§ Linda PerhamTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what plans he has to improve the teaching of mathematics. [127781]
§ Mr. Charles ClarkeWe have achieved the best ever primary school test results in mathematics. In the 2003 Key Stage 2 tests 73 per cent. of 11 year olds achieved the expected level in mathematics, a 14 percentage point increase since 1998. The National Primary Strategy will continue to help teachers improve the learning and teaching of mathematics, focusing on aspects that pupils find most difficult.
The KS3 results are also at their best ever this year, with mathematics up from 2002 by three percentage points, with 70 per cent. achieving the expected level. Through the continuing success of the Key Stage 3 National Strategy, where improving the teaching of mathematics remains a key priority, we expect standards to continue to rise.
The independent Post-14 Maths Inquiry is due to publish its final report at the end of September and is expected to make recommendations on the pedagogy, curriculum and qualifications for those aged 14 and over and to propose options for a new National Centre of Excellence for Mathematics Teaching.