In celebration of National Numeracy Day (22 May), we share the achievements of the Multiply programme and its continued impact in Torbay.

National Numeracy Day is a national campaign that aims to get children and adults across the UK to think about their maths skills. This is so that they can feel empowered to reach their potential. As we mark this day, we reflect on the positive impact that the Multiply programme has had on our community.

Multiply courses are funded by the government and delivered by local partners. They offer a unique chance for adults in Torbay to improve their maths and numeracy skills – for free. The courses are taught through fun classes like cooking, gardening and woodwork. There are also more advanced courses designed to help people work towards a qualification.

In 2022, we secured over £600,000 from the UK government’s Shared Prosperity Fund to deliver the Multiply Programme in Torbay over three years. The programme was launched in partnership with Eat that Frog CIC, I Can Do That and South Devon College.

The programme has proven to be a huge success. It has surpassed all its key targets and provided life-changing skills and confidence to people from all walks of life.

Hundreds of residents supported

Over the last year alone, 34 courses were delivered and 437 learners in Torbay benefited from numeracy and math skills support. Participants have reported how they now have more confidence in everyday scenarios. This includes managing household bills, helping children with their homework and carrying out their duties in the workplace. Many have also commented how the skills they have learned have helped them to manage and reduce their amount of debt.

The courses have helped learners overcome their fears and anxieties related to mathematics. This is often achieved through practical, hands-on activities such as baking. These tasks involve critical numeracy skills such as measuring ingredients, calculating portions, and managing costs​​.

Cllr Chris Lewis, Cabinet Member for Place Services and Economic Growth for Torbay Council, said: "The Torbay Multiply programme is helping people to use maths in their daily life, at home and work. These skills can improve job prospects, contribute to children’s education, and help people to manage their finances.

‘‘Hundreds of residents have already benefitted from these courses and the feedback from participants has been extremely positive. As we enter the third and final year of the programme, I encourage residents who are interested in improving their maths to sign up to a free course today.’’

Sign up to a free Multiply course near you

All residents who want to improve their maths are encouraged to sign up to a free course.  You must be aged 19+ and not already hold a GCSE at Grade C (or equivalent) in maths to take part. 

The courses are designed to focus on the areas you need help with, from weights and measures to computer skills and GCSE preparation. Whatever your ability there is something for you.

Employers who want to invest in the numeracy skills of their workforce can also get involved. The courses are designed to align with business objectives and foster a culture of continuous learning.

To find out more and register your interest visit: www.eatthatfrog.ac.uk/multiply/