Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has unveiled a proposed reform to A-Levels, a significant step that would mandate the study of English and Math until the age of 18. However, a pertinent question arises: is it worth studying both subjects until the age of 18?
He wants to establish a new qualification known as the "Advanced British Standard" to ensure that technical and academic education receives equal attention. This announcement may not sit well with everyone, as not everyone shares a passion for mathematics and English. In April, Sunak voiced concerns about what he referred to as an "anti-maths mindset" within the nation. While this sentiment may have some validity, it's essential to consider the current state of A-Level subject preferences.
In 2022, mathematics reigned supreme as the most popular choice among A-Level students, with nearly 90,000 individuals pursuing this field. This data suggests that there is already a significant interest in mathematics.
However, official government figures reveal a concerning reality: approximately eight million adults in England possess numeracy skills no more advanced than those of primary school children. Furthermore, the repercussions of this "maths deficit" are significant, costing the UK economy up to £25bn annually.
The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning technologies across various industries demands that the younger generation be equipped with the requisite skills. Susannah Streeter, head of money and markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, highlights the increasing demand for data science expertise across the job market, spanning from tech startups to life sciences, banking, and e-commerce.
"If the UK fails to nurture home-grown talent," Streeter warns, "it will be much harder to diffuse technology throughout the economy, resulting in the nation falling behind in terms of productivity gains."
Streeter goes a step further, emphasizing the need for enhanced financial literacy. She points out, "This means young adults are embarking on their careers with inadequate knowledge of how the world of money operates, which can negatively impact their financial resilience."
Indeed, financial literacy poses a growing concern in the UK. According to a study by Shepherds Friendly, only 27 per cent of Britons passed the money literacy test, indicating that nearly three-quarters grapple with financial literacy. There’s also a significant gender disparity, with just 24 per cent of women passing the test compared with 31 per cent of men. These statistics underscore the pressing need for reform in education and financial literacy across the nation.
And children want to have a better understanding of money. In fact, 82 per cent of students said they want more of it, according to the recent London Institute of Banking and Finance Young Persons’ Money Index.
Myron Jobson, senior personal finance analyst at Interactive Investor, says: “Maths and English are important life skills and a strong grounding in both can help increase financial capability, but educators should also focus on practical skills they need to manage money to bolster financial literacy, which is crucial for making informed decisions about their finances as adults.”
So maybe the need to study English and maths until you’re 18 may not be as pertinent as the need for financial literacy. And that is what the government should be focusing on.
