Maths Photo 2008/09
The MathsCareers website has launched a Maths Photo competition, The competition is open to school students between the ages of 11 and 19, who are resident in the UK and Eire only. Students have the opportunity to win a Flip F260B-UK Video Ultra Series Digital Camera. Closing date for all entries is 30 January, 2009.

Ofsted Report Mathematics: understanding the score
This report is based principally on evidence from inspections of mathematics between April 2005 and December 2007 in 192 maintained schools in England. Part A focuses on the inspecting findings in the context of rising standards over the last decade in national tests and examinations. Part B discusses the issues underlying the rises in results and describes the essential components of effective mathematics teaching. Illustrative examples and brief commentaries are provided. The report’s findings contributed to the review of mathematics led by Sir Peter Williams and published in June 2008.

Millennium Mathematics Project Public Lecture
Particle Hunting at CERN on Tuesday 4th November 2008, 5.00 - 6.00 pm, by Dr Ben Allanach Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, University of Cambridge
Venue: Centre for Mathematical Sciences, Clarkson Road, Cambridge.

STEM Directories
The 2008/9 STEM Directories – one each for Science, Mathematics, Engineering & Technology - have been created in direct response to teachers’ needs. A copy of each of the directories can be downloaded from the STEM Directories website, http://www.stemdirectories.org.uk/.

National Number Day: be part of the biggest maths fundraising event ever on 4 December 2008
The NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) is holding Number Day on 4 December 2008 - a great opportunity to get pupils to enjoy maths and raise money for the NSPCC and ChildLine.

Taking part is easy: the Number Day Resource Pack contains everything you need for a successful event, and the money your school raises will help make a real difference to children’s lives.

The sad fact is that 32 000 children in the UK are on child protection registers and are known to be at risk of abuse right now. This is why the NSPCC needs your support. Help them to continue our valuable work and take part in Number Day 2008 by registering for a free resource pack.

QCA
QCA and the regulators for Wales (DCELLS) and Northern Ireland (CCEA) have worked with teachers, awarding bodies, subject associations, higher education and other interested parties to revise the subject criteria for GCSEs in English, mathematics and ICT.

QCA is carrying out an online consultation on the subject criteria from Thursday 26 June until 30 September 2008.

Maths Lectures in London and Birmingham
The London Mathematical Society has been holding annual popular lectures for over 25 years. This year's lecturers are: Dr Tadashi Tokieda ('Toy Models') & Dr Reidun Twarock ('Know your enemy - viruses under the mathematical microscope'). The lectures are aimed at a general audience and are also suitable for sixth formers. Both lectures will be given in London on 9 July and Birmingham on 25 September; tickets are free. Further details on the LMS website

DVDs of previous lectures can also be purchased.

UCAS
Understanding the 14-19 Diplomas
The new Diploma is an alternative to the traditional GCSE or A level route. It offers a mix of classroom learning, creative thinking and hands-on experience.

Statements from universities and colleges about the Diploma
Some universities and colleges have provided a statement regarding their view of the Advanced Diploma

The Independent
The Independent has published a letter about diplomas from Margaret Brown, Professor of Mathematics Education, Kings' College London, http://www.independent.co.uk/news/education/schools/letters-we-need-small-schools-in-our-towns-and-cities-800903.html.

Review of Mathematics Teaching in Early Years Settings and Primary Schools
The final report for the independent Review of Mathematics Teaching in Primary Schools and Early-Years Settings has now been published.

Maths Inspiration - 2008 Programme
The Autumn 2008 programme for 'Maths Inspiration' has now been published.

The Mathematical Needs of 14-19 Pathways
A report of the ACME conference on The Mathematical Needs of 14-19 Pathways has now been published.

The Technology and Engineering in Schools Strategy
The proceedings following the Technology and Engineering in Schools Strategy Seminar are now available at the following location http://www.raeng.org.uk/about/stf/default.htm

IMA Position Statement on the Proposed Dual Award for GCSE Mathematics
Taking in to account the findings of a consultation exercise with our members in early Autumn 2003 and in light of Making Mathematics Count, the report of the Inquiry in to Post-14 Mathematics Education, the IMA's Schools & FE Group has prepared an initial position statement indicating that the IMA's membership base is broadly in favour of a Dual Award for GCSE Mathematics with a "Use of Mathematics" course for all.