ECM: VMT Is GCSE Mathematics Fit for Purpose?
GCSE mathematics is often presented as a success story: participation is high, attainment compares well internationally, and the qualification is widely recognised. Yet, juxtaposed with this, adult numeracy levels in England remain poor. As the Chair of the Numeracy for Life Committee, Lord Agnew of Oulton, recently ob
Details
When? Tuesday 16 June 2026, 12:00 to 13:00
Where? Online Via Zoom
GCSE mathematics is often presented as a success story: participation is high, attainment compares well internationally, and the qualification is widely recognised. Yet, juxtaposed with this, adult numeracy levels in England remain poor. As the Chair of the Numeracy for Life Committee, Lord Agnew of Oulton, recently observed: “Whilst we appear to be performing well in maths for students, we also know that numeracy levels amongst adults are shockingly low, with approximately half of the adult population possessing the numeracy skills expected of an 11‑year‑old.” This raises a fundamental question: is GCSE mathematics fit for purpose?
In this Virtual Maths Tea (VMT), hosted by the IMA Early Career Mathematicians Committee, we invite an informal and open discussion on the role and future of GCSE mathematics. Bringing the mathematics community together, we will explore what GCSE maths is currently designed to do, how it shapes attitudes to numeracy across the life course, and whether it supports the goal of “numeracy for life”.
A Virtual Maths Tea (VMT) is an online event hosted by the Early Career Mathematicians committee where we invite participants to join us for an informal discussion about a topic related to mathematics or the mathematics community. If the topic of this VMT is not for you but you would like to join one in the future, please check the events page for all of our upcoming VMTs. If you have an idea for a VMT topic or would like to co-host a VMT with the ECM committee, you can get in contact via ecm@ima.org.uk.