Sunak Sets Bold Maths Target in 2023 Speech
Rishi Sunak is gearing up to shake up education in his first big speech of 2023. Amid a winter plagued by strikes, NHS crises, and a soaring cost-of-living, the PM will demand a fresh approach to numeracy across the UK.
Numbers Matter More Than Ever
Sunak warns that in today’s data-driven world, kids need serious analytical skills to survive and thrive. “Letting our children out into the world without those skills is letting our children down,” he says. But with only half of 16 to 19-year-olds studying maths – including those just doing science or GCSE resits – the government sees room for major improvement.
No Compulsory A-Level Maths—for Now
Contrary to rumours, Downing Street confirms there are no plans to make A-Level maths compulsory for all 16-year-olds. Instead, officials are exploring ways to beef up current qualifications and introduce “more innovative options.”
Long-Term Plans Being Hatched
Sunak aims to start rolling out the new maths strategy during this Parliament, but expects it to be a work in progress that won’t be finalised until after the next general election. Watch this space.
