Schools should be cautious asking parents to help with maths homework, report says

A new report by the Education Endowment Foundation says that there is little evidence that shows parents helping with maths homework can improve pupil attainment.

The Improving Mathematics in Key Stage Two and Three report also states that delaying the teaching of formal long division teaching methods can help pupils understanding of the subject.

The report has put together recommendations and advises that pupils have a fluent recall of their times-tables; an understanding that fractions are not just parts of whole numbers and are in fact numbers themselves; and to know when to best use a calculator.

Other recommendations include using object and visuals in teaching; enabling pupils to understand the connections between different topics in maths; and using structured interventions to help pupils struggling with maths.

Sir Kevan Collins, chief executive of the Education Endowment Foundation, said: "The practical and evidence-based steps in our latest Guidance Report are based on the best research available. They’re designed to help schools navigate the wealth of information out there and give all their pupils – particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds - the skills they need to succeed."