I’ll always remember my Year 8 maths lessons. We investigated, we discussed, and we explored. Our teacher modelled ‘an appreciation of the beauty and power of mathematics’ and developed our ‘sense of enjoyment and curiosity about the subject’.
Recommendation 5 of ‘Improving Mathematics in Key Stages 2 and 3’ guidance report discusses the importance of adults modelling strategies and behaviours that encourage pupils to develop their independence and motivation towards learning maths.
So, how do we support the next generation of teachers to be role models who instil this mathematical motivation, enjoyment, and confidence?
For the primary PGCE programme at University of Newcastle, maths subject knowledge and pedagogy is taught through key themes; the first of these is ‘Attitudes, beliefs and values.’ This begins with students reflecting autobiographically to introduce the key idea that ‘Teachers are key role models, who can influence the attitudes, values and behaviours of their pupils’ (DfE, 2019).
