Supporting progression in mathematics education

This project involved the creation of a final year project framework based on mathematics pedagogy. This would involve final year mathematics students visiting a local secondary school to observe teaching to GCSE and A-level classes, preparing material in consultation with teachers and delivering this to classes of the appropriate level from the assisting school. This would benefit students interested in progressing from their degrees onto a PGCE course by providing them with insight and experience into the nature of mathematics education and assessment at secondary school level. The project had the additional goals of addressing stereotypes about mathematics degrees and encouraging secondary school children into mathematics degree programs. The goal was to bring classes to Nottingham Trent University where the lessons could be delivered by the students. In addition, this visit was planned to include: a campus tour; question and answer sessions with staff and students; and, a talk on university life, the nature of mathematics courses and careers. Given the relative gender imbalance in mathematics degree intake it was decided that we would work with a girls’ school.