A shortage of qualified maths teachers

The UK faces a significant shortage of qualified maths teachers. Recruitment and retention issues exacerbate the problem. The persistent shortage of qualified teachers continues to pose a challenge to the quality of maths education. 

How does it add up?

The maths doesn't add up, and here’s why. In the 2023-24 academic year, recruitment for initial trainee maths teachers reached only 63% of its target. Moreover, there is a worrying trend that many maths teachers in state schools do not hold a maths or relevant degree. This shortage is particularly acute in secondary schools, where most struggle to recruit specialist maths teachers. 

Many schools are turning to non-specialist teachers to fill the gaps. Up to 15% of maths lessons in 2023-24 were taught by teachers without a maths degree. This has led to a decline in student performance. The situation is further worsened by high attrition rates among maths teachers, with one in eight leaving the profession within five years.

The disruption to education caused by the COVID-19 lockdowns has also had a significant negative impact. Some schools feel that this has reversed the pre-pandemic progress in maths attainment. The issue of poor school attendance post-COVID-19 may be damaging for maths more than other subjects, as understanding depends on prior learning. The need for qualified maths teachers has never been greater. 

Many schools are struggling to fill vacancies

Graduate numbers for Initial Teacher Training (ITT) for maths have declined. This has created a persistent gap in supply. Moreover, maths teachers have one of the highest early-career attrition rates. 

Competition from industry

Maths graduates are sought after in industries including finance, technology, accountancy, actuary, and engineering. Salaries and career prospects exceed those in teaching. This makes it difficult for schools to compete for talent. 

A demand for maths

Policy changes, such as requiring some students to study maths until age 18, have increased the demand for maths teachers. The increase in secondary school student numbers has further strained resources.

These factors contribute to a critical shortage of qualified maths teachers, impacting the quality of education and student outcomes, particularly in disadvantaged areas.

How do schools cope with the shortage of maths teachers? 

Schools are adopting various strategies to cope with the shortage of qualified maths teachers, particularly in secondary education. Here are the primary approaches:

Training teachers from other subjects

Many schools are retraining teachers from other disciplines to teach maths. Programmes like the NCETM’s Specialist Knowledge for Teaching Mathematics – Non-specialist Teachers provide professional development to help these teachers gain the subject knowledge and pedagogical skills. This approach is common for Key Stage 3 classes, where non-specialist teachers often fill gaps.

Prioritising resources 

Qualified teachers are often allocated to GCSE and A-level classes where external accountability measures are stricter. This can have detrimental effects elsewhere in the school, as it leaves younger or lower-attaining students with less experienced staff.

Technology and online resources

To reduce workload and support teaching, schools are using technology, such as automated marking systems and online lesson materials. The Oak National Academy’s maths resources, aligned with the NCETM’s teaching for mastery pedagogy, are being utilised to save preparation time and enhance teaching efficiency.

Attracting maths teachers - how it can add up 

To attract more graduates into teaching, the government currently offers bursaries and scholarships. This includes £29,000 tax-free bursaries and £31,000 tax-free scholarships for maths trainee teachers. Targeted Retention Incentive Payments of up to £6,000 are available for early-career maths teachers working in disadvantaged schools. This is aimed at reducing attrition rates in critical areas. The deadline for teachers applying for this, however, is 31st March 2025. 

Recruiting and retaining maths teachers

To address recruitment and retention challenges, consider the following: 

Enhancing school environments

Schools that improve their culture, workload management, and career progression opportunities make themselves more attractive to potential teachers. A clear professional development pathway can encourage maths graduates to choose teaching as a long-term career.

Partnering with a specialist teaching recruitment agency 

Working with education recruitment agencies like Holden Knight Education can help schools connect with qualified maths teachers more effectively. This ensures the right candidates are matched with the right roles and the most suitable schools. 

Ongoing professional development

Specialist training programmes to enhance skills and confidence, along with networking opportunities through STEM hubs. Schools can use these programmes to upskill existing staff, improve teaching quality, and create a more supportive work environment that encourages retention.

Targeted recruitment programmes

Schemes like Teach First and career-changer initiatives offer structured support for those transitioning into teaching. Teach First benefits schools by supplying high-quality, motivated teachers to fill critical vacancies, especially in disadvantaged areas. Teachers are well-equipped to improve pupil outcomes in maths and STEM subjects. Some progress into senior roles.

By investing in teacher recruitment, training, and retention strategies, schools can work towards closing the gap and securing the future of maths education.