"We are proud to be taking part in the National Numeracy Schools and Families Programme. Our aim from the outset has been to change the narrative around maths for both children and their families. When we launched the scrapbooks and home learning activities with Years 2, 4 and 6, the response was overwhelmingly positive—so much so that pupils and parents from other year groups asked to take part as well.
"In conversations with families and through research, it became clear that many parents experience maths anxiety, often rooted in their own negative experiences of the subject. We frequently heard parents say things like 'I don't want to teach it wrong' or 'I was never good at maths—my child is just like me.' This idea that you're either 'good' at maths or 'not a maths person' is something we are passionate about challenging.
"The impact has been fantastic. Children love completing the tasks with their families, and parents have told us how much fun they are having too. We have seen a significant increase in homework being completed and returned each week, but more importantly, we are seeing a real shift in attitudes. Confidence is growing. Enjoyment is growing. Families are talking about maths in a completely new way.
"This programme is helping our children and families see that maths is not something to fear—it's something to explore, enjoy, and celebrate together."
Sam Sims, CEO of National Numeracy said:
"We are immensely proud of the work in partnership with the local community in Torfaen to improve the numeracy of children, parents, carers and staff.
"This is part of our wider programme of activity across 150 primary schools in Wales that uniquely brings together schools and families to boost the numeracy of both children and adults.
"Improving skills, confidence and attitudes to numbers and maths makes a real difference to people's lives. It opens up educational, employment and financial opportunities that lead to brighter futures for all."
