Maths program to continue in schools thanks to Scietech and Alcoa

More than 3000 teachers, students and parents have taken part in the program since it began in 2012.

The program is a result of the partnership between Scitech and Alcoa, and aims to accelerate teacher capacity, confidence and leadership with mathematics, and boost student performance.

Throughout April and May, Scitech staff will visit the participating schools and facilitate introductory sessions for parents, teachers, and students. The workshops provide a background to the program and gives parents resources and inspiration to support their children’s maths learning over the year.

Scitech chief executive Alan Brien said he was excited about what the enrichment program had already achieved.

“The Alcoa Maths Enrichment Program aims to use the three-way learning relationship between teachers, students and parents to make the transition from basic numeracy to more complicated concepts easier,” he said.

Students have reported a 28 per cent increase in their interest in maths and 20 per cent increase in confidence and enjoyment during maths lessons.

Alcoa of Australia chairman Michael Parker said the program provided children with the building blocks for future career possibilities within the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) fields.

“We need to spark an early interest in mathematics and other STEM subjects if we are going to create a strong pipeline of people pursuing STEM-related professions,” he said.

Later in the year, Scitech will host a family night at City West where schools will be invited to take part in an engaging maths challenge night.