Young Maths Mates are top of the class
Students from across Kirklees have signed up to an exciting new council scheme which will help children with their maths skills.
Maths Mates
The volunteering programme, called Maths Mates, sees sixth formers learn how to support children in the classroom, as well as gaining valuable experience ahead of their working lives.
Once fully trained – and when the Covid-19 rules allow them to visit in person – the hard-working students will go into Kirklees primary schools and spend time with children who might be struggling with maths.
They will be positive role models, pass on their knowledge and aim to inspire children who are only a few years younger than themselves.
Over 30 students, aged 16 to 18, are either already trained by Kirklees Council or are currently going through the process. They are from Greenhead College, Heckmondwike Grammar School and The Mirfield Free Grammar.
They have trained in the evenings, so that it doesn’t interfere with their normal studies, and many have said Maths Mates has already boosted their confidence and social skills.
Mel Meggs, Strategic Director for Children’s Services, said:
“The Maths Mates scheme is a brilliant addition to the way children across Kirklees learn how to improve their numeracy.
Schools already do a great job, but further support is always welcome and we can’t wait for the Covid rules to be relaxed so that the young volunteers can get started.
We would like to thank our students – all of whom are busy studying for A-Levels and other qualifications – for giving up their time to help primary-age children.
They all got involved because they enjoy maths and want to pass on their passion for the subject, knowing they will make a real difference.
For the volunteers, Maths Mates will provide skills and experience which will benefit them when applying for jobs or university.
For the children in school, it will help to develop their numeracy and give them the enjoyment of working alongside positive young role models who love their subject.”
Volunteers on the council’s scheme are trained in different learning styles, the tools that can be used to help a child, the practicalities of working in a school and the value of giving pupils effective feedback.
Students have said:
“I have gained more self-confidence and social skills talking and discussing topics with other people. I have increased my knowledge and learnt lots of new things that will evidently come in handy in the future when working with other people.”
“I achieved my goal as I got more of an understanding about what teaching kids is like. This course has given me a clearer idea of what I may want to do in the future.”
“I really liked learning about all the different topics and also being able to meet other people. I feel like I know much more and now have better skills for helping children moving into the future.”
“I just wanted to say thank you for a great course. I’ve learnt a lot and I had a lot of fun. Fingers crossed schools will be letting volunteers in soon. Thank you!”
Are you interested in joining Maths Mates?
Sixth form students who are interested in joining Maths Mates can express an interest direct with their school or college or by emailing success.centres@kirklees.gov.uk
It is hoped that the scheme will be widened in the future so that people of different ages and backgrounds are able to take part. More details will be released in due course.