At Sir James Smith’s School, we firmly believe that all students should be numerate in order to maximise their life chances and make a positive contribution to society. We are committed to ensuring that every student develops a level of numeracy that enables them to pursue their chosen career or further education pathway, achieve their full potential, and carry out everyday numerical tasks with ease.

So, we will be launching a Numeracy Tutor Programme from September 2025. This will run once a week, with two key components designed to strengthen students’ numerical fluency and real-world application.

1. Numeracy Ninjas

For five weeks each half term, students will complete Numeracy Ninjas—a five-minute skills test focused on core numeracy strategies. Each test includes:

• 10 mental calculation strategy questions
• 10 multiplication and associated fact questions
• 10 questions covering essential mathematical concepts

For students who have already mastered these areas, a bonus problem-solving question will be provided to stretch and challenge them further.

This programme is designed to:

• Close gaps in basic mental calculation skills
• Build the fluency needed to access the numerate content at GCSE-level across subjects such as Science, Geography and Maths
• Develop self-confidence and a positive attitude towards numeracy
• Foster the problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers

2. Numeracy in Real Life

Once a half term, students will take part in a Numeracy in Real Life session, which will explore topics such as:

• What are Taxes?
• What is Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL)?
• Pros and Cons of Credit Cards
• Why Do We Need Pensions?

Each session follows a consistent format beginning with an engaging introduction. Followed by an informative video to build understanding and knowledge which leads onto a myth-busting activity where students decide if statements are true or false. Finally, finishing with a clear take-home message to reinforce learning

These sessions are designed to equip students with the numerical understanding required for adult life. According to a 2021 report by Pro Bono Economics, poor numeracy can cost individuals up to £1,600 per year—amounting to a loss of £56,000 over a typical working lifetime. Our ultimate goal is to ensure our students are well-prepared to avoid such disadvantages and thrive in the real world.