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Learning to beat your maths bully

28 Aug 2019

In 2018, a group of USDAW members from the DHL/Argos in Castleford took part in a pilot scheme for the National Numeracy Challenge. We were lucky enough to be able to speak to a few of them about their experiences with the Challenge, and you can hear their stories in the video below.

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One in four people say that they’ve been deterred from applying for a job due to the numbers and data involved, but you don't need to be one of them. Have a look at the top tips below from the USDAW learners on how to get on and get ahead with the Challenge:

  • Accept help from those around you, whether family and friends or your union; different perspectives and support can help when tackling a tricky question

  • Find what works for you; whether you feel best doing the Check-Up in one sitting, or in five-minute bursts; with other people present, or with complete privacy and a quiet atmosphere

  • Have an open mind as to how it will improve your life and confidence. Fear and anxiety that you will never be able to improve is common when it comes to maths, but more often than not the worry is worse than the work – don't let maths bully you!

  • Recognise it as the personal achievement it is, and celebrate your successes as you go

Do you need a maths MoT this Checktember? Try the National Numeracy Challenge.

Find out what adult numeracy levels mean using our comparison table

What do levels mean?

Find out more about maths anxiety

What is a fear of maths, how does it affect people and their lives, and what can you do to help? National Numeracy has collected a variety of research, stories from real people, and advice about maths anxiety.

Visit the page