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The importance of our national curriculum cannot be overstated. It is an entitlement to the most important knowledge that we expect children and young people to learn, both for their benefit and for the benefit of the nation.

This thematic report focuses on the quality of teaching, learning, and leadership in mathematics in schools across Wales. It outlines effective practice and areas for improvement in teaching, curriculum, leadership, and assessment.

This guidance report focuses on the teaching of mathematics to pupils in Key Stages 2 and 3. The consultation suggested that these were areas where guidance could have a significant impact, as not only are schools seeking advice on adjusting to a new curriculum, but there is also concern about pupils making a transition between stages.

In June 2020 we published the Great Teaching Toolkit: Evidence Review, a credible evidence summary of the elements of great teaching practice.

Mathematics is a universal language that helps us to understand the world, and it is a core part of the curriculum. As well as teaching about numbers, shapes, statistics and patterns, it provides important tools for work in areas such as physics, architecture, medicine and business.

The national curriculum is an investment in all our young people, for their benefit and for the benefit of the nation. In addition to supporting individual success, it plays a crucial role in providing the knowledge and skills required to build a prosperous economy and flourishing civil society, as well as promoting social cohesion and sustaining democracy. For these reasons, it is imperative that the national curriculum supports high and rising standards in our education system.