Numeracy is a proficiency that involves confidence and competence with numbers and measures. It requires an understanding of the number system, a repertoire of computational skills and an inclination and ability to solve number problems in a variety of contexts. Numeracy also demands a practical understanding of the ways in which information is gathered by counting and measuring, and is presented in graphs, diagrams, charts and tables.

(Framework for Teaching Mathematics – years 7 to 9 – DfES)

We are committed to developing the numeracy skills of our learners, in the belief that it will support their learning and enable them to access the whole curriculum and, in turn, raise standards for all. We believe that Numeracy is not the sole responsibility of the Mathematics Department. Most other subjects can, in fact, contribute to the development and enhancement of students’ numeracy skills including their ability to describe and explain their strategies and reasoning. Almost all subjects depend on pupils having competence in basic numeracy skills.
Numeracy skills enable students to understand and interpret numerical and analytical information. This facilitates improvement in students' abilities to make their own judgments and to draw sensible conclusions from information. If students' numeracy skills are not developed and used they may well be denied the opportunity to develop the level of understanding of some topics or subjects at the level expected for their age.