'Maths builds life skills': Here's why parents should nurture their child’s numeracy skills

A Grattan Institute study has found that not only are Australia's students struggling with maths. (Image: Representative image of a classroom/Right Image: Education expert Dr Meera Varadharajan) Credit: Background Image: AAP/Right Image: Supplied by Meera Varadharajan

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A recent national survey of 1,745 teachers and school leaders has found that student numeracy levels are in a state of "crisis," sparking concerns over teachers' confidence in teaching the subject. In this podcast, we chat with education researcher Dr Meera Varadharajan about the survey’s key findings and why they should matter to parents.

A new study by the Grattan Institute, titled

Maths Guarantee report

- has found that many Australian students are falling behind in maths — and a significant number of teachers aren’t confident teaching it, even at a Year Six level.

The report also highlights international comparisons: only 13 per cent of Australian Year Four students performed at an advanced level in a 2023 global maths test, compared to 22 per cent in England, 16 per cent in Ireland, and 32 per cent in Japan.

In response, the institute has made series of recommendations, including setting a long-term goal of 90 per cent numeracy proficiency in NAPLAN, providing clearer guidance on effective teaching methods, and boosting professional development for educators.

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