Maths ability equal in girls and boys

A major study into maths attainment has found that girls and boys perform equally well in the subject, dispelling long-held myths around gender and education.

The first Uk-wide research of its kind for 13 years found differences in maths attainment between the sexes to be almost negligible.

Professor Keith Topping of the University of Dundee also found that regular and high-quality maths practice improves outcomes across the board.

He analysed data from more than 20,103 students from primary and secondary schools across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland using a programme called Star Maths.

He said: “Maths skills are becoming more and more important in an increasingly digital and autonomous world. This study shows practically no difference between boys and girls when it comes to attainment.

“Educationalists must chal- lenge the gendering of STEM subjects if we are to ever see more female engineers, scientists, and mathematicians.”

Lauren Shapiro, team manager at learning provider Renaissance, said: “There is an enduring myth that girls don’t perform as well as boys in maths. This stereotype can follow them into later life with fewer women taking up careers in STEM subjects or becoming maths teachers.

“But this research indicates that does not need to be the case. This should be a wakeup call for all educationalists.”