THE INSTITUTE OF MATHEMATICS
AND ITS APPLICATIONS

Institute Applauds Report on Mathematics Education Making Mathematics Count
Professor Adrian Smith's Inquiry Into Post-14 Mathematics Education

Media Release - 23 February 2004

1. The Institute of Mathematics and Its Applications is the professional body for mathematicians practicing in industry, commerce and academia. As such it recognises the increasing mathematical orientation of our world, both in terms of skills needed in the workplace and as the keystone for education and training.

2. The Institute sees the report 'Making Mathematics Count' by Professor Adrian Smith as containing an essential vision for the future of mathematics education.

3. In its evidence to Professor Smith's Inquiry the Institute highlighted the damage done to UK competitiveness through the decline in the UK mathematics base.

4. The Institute concurs with Professor Smith in his identification of possible factors underlying this decline: in particular the lack of awareness of the importance of mathematical skills for future careers.

5. The Institute reiterates its support for the Advisory Committee for Mathematics Education (ACME) and the enhanced role now envisaged for it in the delivery of the report's vision for mathematics education. The Institute further endorses the call for a corresponding body to speak for the mathematics community on strategic issues related to research and knowledge transfer.

6. The Institute strongly endorses the recognition of the importance of the mathematical needs of all students in its design of future pathways for post 14 mathematics. The Institute agrees that the current arrangements for GCSE are "perverse" and welcomes the report's recommendations.

7. The Institute agrees that the vision encapsulated by the report can only be delivered through an adequate supply of qualified and well supported teachers. The proposals for effective programmes of Continuing Professional Development delivered via an appropriate infrastructure are seen as well thought out and worthy of support.

8. Noting that the Tomlinson Inquiry on the overall provision for 14-19 education has yet to issue its final report, the Institute will be concerned to see that the proposals emerging from the Smith Inquiry are incorporated in that report, and that Government makes available the additional funding required to implement Professor Smith's recommendations. Full report available on the following website: http://www.mathsinquiry.org.uk/report/ You may order a hard copy of the report from Prolog on Tel:0845 6022260 or by e-mailing dfes@prolog.uk.com.

This Media Release is available as PDF or Word file.

Report of the Inquiry into Post-14 Mathematics Education
Dr L R Mustoe CMATH FIMA Member of The Higher Education Service Area, Director of Science and Engineering Foundation Studies, Loughborough University.

For further information contact:
David Youdan (Executive Director, IMA) - Catherine Richards House, 16 Nelson Street, Southend-on-Sea, Essex. SS1 1EF Tel:+44 (0) 1702 356109.