Mathematics, a universal language that enables understanding of the world around us, is an integral part of the curriculum.

It has provided solutions to some of history’s most intriguing problems and is critical to science, technology, engineering and necessary for financial literacy and most forms of employment. Studying mathematics nurtures the development of a logical and methodical mindset, as well as helping to learn key skills needed to solve all manner of problems. Attainment in the subject is also key to opening new doors to further study and employment. However, despite its importance, for many the subject remains mysterious and difficult, only accessible to those who seem to be ‘naturals’.

In our specialist VI setting we acknowledge the additional barrier that a lack of vision presents in terms of awareness of distance, shape, dimension and related elements of shape and space that sighted children learn incidentally. Our aim, as the mathematics team, at New College Worcester is simple; we want to remove this myth to create a mathematics curriculum where all of our students enjoy, and rise to, the challenges of our beautiful subject.

Phil Brookes

January 2024