We interweave three themes in this lecture. 
· Statistics has only been taught relatively recently (within living memory) in our schools. Its introduction and development was linked to the availability of electronic means of calculation; however, it has been limited by the affordability of suitable devices and by restrictions on what is allowed in public examinations. Consequently, schools are now a long way behind the workplace and higher education in what technology is used, and how. All school subjects that use or produce data need their students to be more competent in statistics. 

· Over half of each age cohort pass GCSE mathematics with grade 4 or better but do not go on to take AS or A level in mathematics or statistics. These students, over 300 000 of them each year, have traditionally been left out in the cold as far as statistics, technology and relevant mathematics are concerned. There has been no suitable provision for them. 

· The situation is now changing with the introduction of Core Maths. This course highlights problem solving in subjects other than mathematics. It has a heavy emphasis on statistics, supported by the use of technology (for example, spreadsheets with statistics facilities). At last, teaching statistics is driven by data. 

The lecture includes examples of questions that have been used in recent Core Maths papers and identifies opportunities that Core Maths is making available for improved statistics teaching, learning and assessment, particularly for this large section of each age cohort. The take up of Core Maths is increasing but is still modest, particularly in comparison with the number of young people who stand to benefit from it and also in terms of the national need for employees who are competent in data and statistics. The lecture looks at ways that increased take up can be encouraged. We conclude by considering what would happen if we were to change from the present three A level regime to a baccalaureate system. We conclude that the lessons currently being learnt through Core Maths will be very important in such an eventuality, particularly those for statistics teaching, learning and assessment.

We welcome all teachers and students of mathematics and statistics and anyone interested in the world of mathematics and statistics to join us at this free event at Newcastle University.
 

Stella Dudzic: Stella taught for 22 years in secondary schools, including 9 years as head of department, before joining Mathematics in Education and Industry (MEI, a national curriculum development body) in 2006. Her MEI work in curriculum development includes producing new qualifications and overseeing the production of teaching resources. She is a textbook author and editor, and regularly leads CPD for teachers. She has worked with Roger on RSS-commissioned and other reports

For further information please email the local organiser Dr Shirley Coleman, School of Maths, Stats and Physics, Newcastle University shirley.coleman@newcastle.ac.uk