"It is highly rewarding to be a part of young people's success and to hear reports from school of how they are advancing and often outperforming their peers."
Seven year olds lagging behind in maths and English
26/08/2009
Disappointing Government figures have revealed this week that fewer seven-year-olds are able to master basic maths skills this year. Teacher assessments showed that just 89 per cent of pupils reached Level two in maths – the standard expected of the age group – down from 90 per cent last year.
The statistics also showed that standards in speaking and listening, reading and science have stalled for the second year in a row. But the figures also show that boys are still lagging behind girls in every area. The difference is most marked in writing skills – 87 per cent of girls reached Level two, compared with 75 per cent of boys. Critics claim that children are falling behind at school too early and are failing to catch up.
This means that parents are looking outside of school for additional help to ensure that their children get the best possible chance of succeeding in their studies. Leading education provider Kumon Educational UK has reported a steady increase in the take up of their maths and English programmes this year. This increase clearly demonstrates that even in the current, difficult financial climate, families and parents are willing to invest in their children's education in order to give them a better future.
Kumon Educational UK, Deputy General Manager Terry Kelly said:
"At Kumon we aim to help each child reach their full potential and these new Government figures are quite worrying. We know from talking to our students and parents that many children can easily fall behind at school and that it can be very difficult to catch up without any additional help. When children fall behind this not only affects their academic ability but can also shatter their confidence and Kumon aims to build confidence and self belief so that children can go on to lead happy and successful lives."
Kumon Educational UK offers an affordable programme for children to excel in the core subjects of maths and English. The Kumon programmes help children master the fundamentals of maths and English whilst building strong learning skills, boosting their confidence and helping them to realise their true potential. Kumon is a daily worksheet based programme that works well alongside schools, reinforcing concepts learnt in the classroom whilst developing mental ability, confidence, self reliance and enthusiasm for learning. Students attend Kumon class up to twice a week and obtain guidance and support from a specially trained Kumon Instructor and class assistants.
From 21 September to 20 October, Kumon is running a two-week Free Trial. This exciting offer is totally free of charge and open to all children in the UK. The Free Trial provides children with the opportunity to experience Kumon first-hand and also gives parents an insight into how the Kumon method can benefit their child, without any financial commitment.
To enrol on the Free Trial or for general Kumon enquiries, please call our freephone number on 0800 854 714 or visit Kumon.co.uk to find your nearest study centre.