Should mathematics be compulsory up to the age of 18?

The Advisory Committee for Mathematics Education (ACME) has recently sought responses to its paper on the future of post-16 mathematics. The proposals in the paper focus on an expectation that all post-16 learners will study mathematics in a way that is appropriate for their individual learner needs, via one of three pathways. This has generated substantial debate not only amongst the mathematics community, but also across a range of other subject communities, employers and also universities.

I feel strongly that mathematics should be compulsory up to the age of 18. Mathematics is fundamental to our understanding of the world and studying it benefits all learners. This is evident when considering that mathematics is an essential element of the study of science, technology and engineering along with being fundamental to success in many other areas of learning.

Most developed countries already expect students to study mathematics up to the age of 18 and consequently current legislation may be negatively impacting on the UK's economic competitiveness as well as disadvantaging students in contrast with their foreign counterparts.

If the study of mathematics is to become compulsory up the age of 18 then there are two issues that need to be addressed. Firstly, it is important that the study can be tailored to individual learners' needs. For many students this will be achieved by highlighting the connections outside of mathematics. This will be especially important to students progressing in STEM areas and may also contribute to more students opting for such a route.

Secondly, a major recruitment drive would be needed, along with up-skilling of the existing workforce and subject conversion, to enable all students to receive effective teaching. There would need to be an intensive period of professional development opportunities for mathematics teachers. In addition to this, opportunities would need to be made available for teachers of other subjects, especially STEM, to be involved in the delivery of some of the pathways.

What's next? ACME is currently considering responses to its discussion paper and will be publishing a summary shortly.