Partners come together to Multiply numeracy skills in Barnsley

Schools, colleges, employers, voluntary and community organisations in Barnsley are teaming up to improve adults’ confidence with numbers. Today cabinet members heard how we’re rolling out the Department for Education’s Multiply initiative over the next two years.

Through Multiply, we’re supporting residents across Barnsley so that maths doesn’t hold them back. By exploring the role numeracy plays in our everyday lives, we’re encouraging more people to brush up on their skills for life and work. By easing into learning, there are lots of local options for people to go all the way to achieving a Level 2 maths qualification.

Cllr Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “As a former maths teacher, it’s great to see how Barnsley is supporting our residents to see the value of maths and feel confident with numbers. It’s important that there are lots of opportunities in Barnsley for people to develop their skills, so that our communities can benefit from learning and work.”

Our Skills and Employability team are working with the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority, Barnsley’s Adult Skills and Community Learning, Barnsley College’s Independent Training Services and the Northern College to deliver the programme.

Emma Beal, Principal and Chief Executive of The Northern College, said: “For some people, it’s difficult to get over their fear of maths. Multiply is all about showing how learning and developing numeracy skills can be fun, and showing how increased confidence with numbers can make a positive impact on people’s lives.”

Developing people's skills, talents, and creativity will open exciting prospects. That’s why we’re committed to supporting people to fulfil their learning potential and build skills to get into, progress at, and stay in work.

Steve Hepworth, Managing Director of Independent Training Services, said: “Multiply provides a fantastic opportunity for anyone who’s looking to improve their numeracy skills. Students with this skill set are more likely to be in employment, have higher wages, better wellbeing and will be more able to progress to higher levels of free training to secure a skilled job.”

Keep an eye out for more information about Multiply in Barnsley by following our official Barnsley Council social media accounts. Visit our website to find out more about other opportunities to grow your skills and employability. The cabinet report with more information about Barnsley’s Multiply funding can be found on our website.   

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