RECORD numbers of East Sussex residents have benefited from a three-year programme to boost adult numeracy skills.
More than 3,000 people have taken part in free classes run through the government funded Multiply programme which aimed to help those who did not already have GCSE Maths at grade C (or equivalent) to upskill their maths knowledge.
A range of innovative courses, embedding maths in animal care, household budgeting, forestry, horticulture, digital skills, music and cookery, have enabled people to build their confidence with numbers, making a real difference to their lives.
Participants praised the flexibility of the courses, saying that their confidence and knowledge had increased.
One learner who took the Basic Spreadsheets and Maths Course said: “The course gave me confidence to be able to take my learning and understanding of maths further.”
Another commented: “Before the course, Maths was a subject I didn’t like and wasn’t interested in. I am aware that I still need more practice, however, now feel I have the resources to do so.”
The Multiply programme was delivered by the county council and a range of partners, including further education colleges and training providers, charitable and voluntary groups, and employers.
The commitment and hard work of the 16 delivery partners was acknowledged at an event in Eastbourne last month.
Cllr Bob Standley, lead member for education at East Sussex County Council, said: “I am delighted we have been able to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our partners who have helped us successfully deliver the Multiply programme across East Sussex.
“Confidence with numbers is so crucial – whether it’s helping your children with their homework, doing the family budget, or wanting to progress at work.
“The project leaves behind a positive legacy for all the participants and those who delivered the training.”
The initiative has also helped local employment sectors, including Health & Social Care, the NHS, the rail industry, and East Sussex SMEs, to boost their workforce’s skills through the delivery of bespoke workplace programmes.
Developing employees’ numeracy skills can help businesses boost productivity, increase profits, and improve employee retention.
Cllr Penny di Cara, lead member for economy at East Sussex County Council, said: “Good maths skills are key to unlocking employment prospects for both employers and their staff.
“The courses have enabled participants to progress onto more formal maths qualifications, with employed participants taking on further courses to improve their work skills, and those who are not employed increasing their confidence to take the next steps towards employment.
“I am very proud that through Multiply the county council and our partners have helped more than 3,000 East Sussex residents improve their numeracy skills and gain skills for life.”
During the three-year programme, free in person or online courses were available across East Sussex, either for a set number of weeks or as one-off workshops.
The providers who delivered the programme in East Sussex are:
1066 Citizens Advice Bureau
Audio Active
East Sussex College
East Sussex County Council Apprenticeship and Qualification Team
East Sussex County Council Employability and Skills Team
Eastbourne Studio Pottery
Education Futures Trust
Fellowship of St. Nicholas
GRH Training Consultancy
People Matter Trust
Plumpton College
Reed in Partnership
Sussex Community Development Association
Crossland and Morton Training
Library Information Service
Little Gate Farm Supported Employment