Nick Thomas-Symonds MP joins Cwmffrwdoer Primary to celebrate ‘Schools & Families’ Programme in Torfaen
Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds visited Cwmffrwdoer Primary to see the rollout ‘Schools & Families’ Programme, which aims to increase pupils’ confidence with numbers, the awareness of the value of maths outside the classroom and parental engagement.
The Schools and Families Programme was launched by the charity National Numeracy in 2024, with funding in Wales from Barclays LifeSkills, the Curriculum for Wales grant support programme, and the Moondance Foundation.
Between 2025-2028, National Numeracy are rolling out the Schools & Families Programme bilingually to over 150 primary schools across Wales, including 4 in Torfaen; Blenheim Road Community Primary School; Cwmffrwdoer Primary School; Nant Celyn Primary School; St David’s R.C. Primary School.
National Numeracy work with primary schools on the programme for two years through a comprehensive package of support, including staff training, activities for children and support for parents and carers.
On his visit to Cwmffrwdoer Primary, Nick Thomas-Symonds had the opportunity to see first-hand the programme being delivered in the classroom, and spoke to staff on the benefits for pupils and their families.
Nick Thomas-Symonds MP said: “It was great to visit Cwmffrwdoer Primary to see the Schools and Families programme that’s being rolled out here in Torfaen.
It’s delivering important lessons to young people to ensure they have the life skills to be confident dealing with numbers and finances in the future.
Thank you to National Numeracy, Barclays LifeSkills, and the Moondance Foundation for working together to deliver this programme.”
Sam Sims, CEO of National Numeracy said: “We are immensely proud of the work in partnership with the local community in Torfaen to improve the numeracy of children, parents, carers and staff.
This is part of our wider programme of activity across 150 primary schools in Wales that uniquely brings together schools and families to boost the numeracy of both children and adults.
Improving skills, confidence and attitudes to numbers and maths makes a real difference to people’s lives. It opens up educational, employment and financial opportunities that lead to brighter futures for all.”
Tracey Howells, Maths and Numeracy Lead at Cwmffrwdoer Primary School said: “We are proud to be taking part in the National Numeracy Schools and Families Programme. Our aim from the outset has been to change the narrative around maths for both children and their families.
The impact of the Programme has been fantastic. Children love completing the tasks with their families, and parents have told us how much fun they are having too. We have seen a significant increase in homework being completed and returned each week.
More importantly, this programme is helping our children and families see that maths is not something to fear—it’s something to explore, enjoy, and celebrate together.”
