The National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics comments on the OFSTED Report on the teaching of 14-19 mathematics

"Of course we are very aware of the issues and challenges facing mathematics education," said David Burghes, Director of NCETM, "but the report adds valuable evidence and insights to support the direction of the strategies we are already developing to address these issues."

Like NCETM, the report places the quality of teaching as the most important influence on student achievement and highlights the need for appropriate continuing professional development which focuses on effective practice and promotes sharing of good practice.

"Collaborative professional development across mathematics departments is at the heart of the work of NCETM," says Professor Burghes. "We will not only build on the successful work of the Standards Unit, as recommended in the report, but also on many years of experience of developing successful models of collaborative practice, both here and internationally. NCETM is actively promoting the use of such practice and supporting teachers in working collaboratively within and between their schools and colleges."

Supporting non-specialist teachers is also a priority for NCETM and members of the core team are currently working with the Training and Development Agency and the Advisory Committee for Mathematics Education in developing innovative courses for these teachers.