• 49% of the working-age population of England have numeracy levels equivalent to primary school children
  • estimated total loss £20 billion per year to the UK economy (National Numeracy Organisation)
  • UK languishes 21st out of 35 participating countries in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s (OECD) Survey of Adult Skills, proficiency in numeracy

Adults in Warwickshire keen to improve their numeracy skills are set to benefit from a new free Government-funded training programme launched by Warwickshire County Council and partner, hard-hitting, dynamic training provider PET-Xi. Warwickshire Counts, part of the Government’s Multiply programme which is part of the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund.  It is designed for adults over the age of 19 who do not already have a GCSE at Grade C or equivalent maths qualification. Courses range from building confidence and numeracy skills for beginners, to more advanced levels, leading learners to Functional Skills Qualifications or GCSE.

Commenting on the new programme, Fleur Sexton, CEO, PET-Xi, said, ‘Good numeracy skills really matter, they lead to an increase in employment possibilities and advancement, alongside higher wages and improved wellbeing. Gaining a maths qualification at Level 2 or equivalent, unlocks the door to progress to higher levels of free training to secure a skilled job. Lack of numeracy skills exacerbates the disadvantage suffered by the most vulnerable in our society. The present statistics around adult numeracy do not add up to a thriving economy or job market, and it’s the less advantaged adults who have once more been left behind.

‘Warwickshire Counts is a step in the right direction – improving people’s understanding and use of everyday maths – whether that’s juggling household budgets and finances in these challenging times, helping your children with their homework or making more sense of the facts in the media.

‘It’s also good news for businesses across Warwickshire, with opportunities for employers to develop specific work-based maths skills for their workforce, boost productivity, increase profits, and improve employee retention.

‘PET-Xi offers face-to-face, online or blended courses using our PET-Xi Live Virtual Learning Environment, and for those in work or with other commitments who wish to access the programme we have devised a flexible ‘Lunch and Learn’ solution. All courses are delivered by our inspirational team of trainers and specialists.

‘Maths really matters. Numeracy skills can literally change lives and provide a boost to business at a time when this economic downturn is biting hard. When it comes down to the basics – Warwickshire Counts can add up to improved futures.’

Find out more information about Warwickshire Counts programme here.