MathsMakers, an educational charity, has been awarded a £3,500 grant from the London Freemasons Charity to support 64 disadvantaged students at Nower Hill High School in Harrow.
Targeted at 14 to 16-year-olds, the program will provide weekly hour-long online maths tutorials over a 12-week period in 2024.
Since its inception in 2014, MathsMakers has collaborated with schools and community organisations to help students aged 10-16 improve their maths skills, confidence, and exam results.
The charity focuses on aiding students who are on free school meals, have special educational needs and disabilities, or are English language learners—groups that often lag behind their peers academically. This support aims to enhance their educational outcomes and broaden their future opportunities.
Helena Mullins, Executive Director of MathsMakers said: “We are extremely grateful to the London Freemasons Charity for their generous donation of £3,500. This is the third year that we have received this valuable funding. It makes it possible for MathsMakers to offer free maths support to disadvantaged children.
“Unlike their peers who are not disadvantaged, many of these children do not have access to learning support outside of school. With funding from the London Freemasons Charity, MathsMakers can provide that support and help disadvantaged children reach their potential.
“This will help reduce the attainment gap between them and their peers. Success in maths is crucial for self confidence and for ensuring access to future education and employment opportunities. So, the support of London Freemasons Charity makes a real difference.”
Parents of children who have attended the MathsMakers programme add: “As my son struggles with maths, having extra time to learn the concepts and methods has been very helpful for him” and “My daughter has gained confidence and I have been particularly impressed with the staff involved. Communication is very clear.
“Staff have shown care and consideration for the students. The supportive prep for exams was a kind and nurturing experience for my daughter. Intriguingly, she has reported that her ‘maths brain’ has stopped struggling to answer questions – rather she believes being prepared for the exams has allowed things to flow.”
Paul King, London Freemasons, said: “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to help theMathsMakers with their hugely important work to help disadvantaged London kids with maths. We’re proud to help the next generation make the most of their life chances and choices.”
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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