From Esther Chesterman, CEO, NEC



As a former teacher, I saw anxiety about learning demonstrated in many ways: the pupil who went quiet rather than risk a wrong answer, the one who stayed away, the one who was sure they simply weren't 'a maths person'. It rarely looks like anxiety from the outside, but it shapes what people feel able to attempt.

That's why this issue has a wellbeing thread running through it. You'll find a look at maths anxiety and how our revised GCSE course is designed to ease it, Functional Skills as a different route to a level 2 maths qualification, and Imogen's story of finding a way of learning that suited her.

We're also delighted to be partnering with The Foundation for Young People's Mental Health on 21 October for a webinar exploring the ways in which we can best nurture positive mental health in education.

Wellbeing was also on my mind after the recent Prime Minister's conference speech. He spoke of an education system "built for some and not for all", and I've written about what that means for the young people who can't get through the classroom door at all. You can read my response here.

I hope you enjoy the issue.

When anxiety puts the breaks on maths progress

For many young people, achieving a GCSE in maths is an important milestone, yet it can be one of the most daunting.  

Beyond the subject matter itself, feelings of worry or apprehension can create significant barriers to learning. Concentration can be affected and self-belief undermined, often preventing students from attempting questions they might otherwise tackle successfully. 

Despite its profound effects, maths anxiety is unnervingly common and not limited to the young — a National Numeracy Survey in 2023 noting that 35% of adults reported feeling anxious about maths.

Its causes are varied and often deep-seated — from the fear of making mistakes or being reprimanded, to the pressure of working quickly, or comparing progress to others. Many simply believe they do not have a ‘maths brain’.

The good news is that it is an issue that can be — and is being — addressed. Pearson’s Tackling Maths Anxiety Guide, explores the research behind maths anxiety, examining its origins, potential interventions and practical ways to help learners develop a healthier relationship with the subject.

A different approach to maths GCSE

Unlocking mathematical potential is something we care passionately about at NEC.

Which is why we've redesigned our popular Maths GCSE course from the ground up, to build a learning experience specifically created to reduce maths anxiety, build confidence and help every student achieve their goals.

We’ve broken down more than 150 hours of learning into small, easily digestible chunks that activate different learning pathways to maximise engagement and knowledge retention. Alongside, we’ve included interactive knowledge checks that enable students to regularly assess their understanding, in a safe space.  

The system adapts to each student's progress, their peak focus times and their processing speed, providing a truly individualised learning experience that reassures, builds confidence and reinforces knowledge at carefully timed intervals.

This approach allows students to work at their own pace, revisit challenging concepts when needed, and learn through trial and error without fear of judgement — removing many of the obstacles that can make maths feel overwhelming in a traditional setting. 

With accessibility built in from the outset, each element of the course is delivered through an easy to access, low-sensory online environment that accommodates all — including those with neurodiversity.

Maths for the real world: discover Functional Skills

Despite its many merits, Maths GCSE is not the only route to obtaining a level 2 maths qualification.

For those preferring a more practical approach, NEC also offers the opportunity to study Functional Skills in Maths. Equivalent to a Grade 4 at GCSE, the course focuses on applying maths knowledge to solve everyday problems, offering direct real-world applicability.

The syllabus can be completed in just a few months, with online assessments available throughout the year. This means learners can sit their exams in familiar surroundings, when they are ready, without being tied to formal exam sittings in the Summer or Autumn. 

Structured step-by-step progression helps learners build confidence gradually, while provisions such as additional time, rest breaks and tailored screen settings, where needed, help ensure everyone can demonstrate their skills fairly.

Whether maths is a stepping stone to further study or an essential qualification for career plans, Functional Skills offers a valuable alternative to help students move forward.

Finding her own path: Imogen’s journey from home education to university

Whether building confidence or pursuing a passion, having the flexibility to learn in a way that really suits you can make all the difference.

Imogen’s story, featured this month, illustrates the value of finding an environment that aligns with individual study preferences, learning styles and ambitions.

Having been home educated since the age of eight, Imogen was already comfortable with learning outside of the conventional classroom when she chose to study A levels in Maths, History and Psychology with NEC.

What appealed most was the freedom to manage her own time and study schedule while strengthening the independent learning skills needed for university. At the same time, she valued knowing that tutors were always available when she needed guidance. This proved particularly useful as exams approached, alongside the reassurance and wellbeing support provided by NEC’s pastoral team.

Find out more as Imogen reflects on her journey in this month's blog.

Young Minds Matter: putting wellbeing at the heart of learning

We know that wellbeing plays a vital role in helping students thrive academically. When they feel supported, safe and understood, learners can truly embrace their educational journey with confidence, enthusiasm and a sense of purpose.

So we are delighted to be partnering with The Foundation for Young People’s Mental Health for an online event taking place on 21 October, to explore how we can best nurture positive mental health in education. 

Together, we’ll consider how learning environments can influence emotional wellbeing, learn how to recognise the signs that a young person may be struggling, and explore practical ways to offer meaningful support. We’ll also look at how parents, carers and educators can take proactive steps to help foster a positive experience of learning.

Whether you are supporting a young person at home or in a more traditional educational setting, this event offers an opportunity to learn, share insights and consider how we can help the next generation flourish, both academically and personally.

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