Since 2019, a persistent and significant confidence gap in numeracy has been well-documented. However, at that time, this disparity in confidence was not reflected in actual performance. Now, in a striking shift, the confidence gap is mirrored by a growing performance gap, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.
Our research consistently shows that improving confidence is the most effective way to improve skills, yet we continue to see how a lack of number confidence creates barriers to learning and achievement. Addressing this confidence gap is critical – not just for individual learners but for tackling the widening gender performance divide. Our latest data underscores that boosting confidence could be a key step toward closing this alarming gap.
Maths confidence must be a national priority
The sharp increase in the gender gap – from just two points in 2020 to 26 points today – cannot be explained by ability alone.
Dr Jennie Golding of the UCL Institute of Education and one of the co-principal investigators on the research, said:
“Over the last 20 years, boys and girls have achieved similar scores in TIMSS in both mathematics and science.
“It is difficult to say exactly why this gap has opened up, but our findings point to some factors including confidence, a sense of belonging and absenteeism. However, more research is needed to understand the reasons fully and address this problem.”
Research consistently shows that girls struggle with confidence in maths, even when their skills are strong. A culture of perfectionism, fear of failure, and outdated stereotypes discourages them from engaging with numbers.
Maths anxiety disproportionately affects women and girls, and this is not just an education issue – it’s a workforce issue, a financial issue, and a societal issue. If girls disengage from numeracy at school, it affects their subject choices, career paths, and ultimately, their economic opportunities.
Sam Sims, CEO, National Numeracy said:
“At National Numeracy, we are committed to tackling this issue head-on, working with individuals, employers, and educators to build the nation’s confidence with numbers.
“Maths confidence must be a policy priority, embedded in education strategies, teacher training, and national campaigns. We need a cultural shift in how we teach maths – breaking the cycle of maths anxiety, fostering a growth mindset, and ensuring every girl believes she can improve.
“Low maths confidence often starts at school and follows individuals throughout life, impacting career choices, financial wellbeing, and everyday decision-making. Last year our Leadership Council launched the Gender Taskforce to tackle the UK’s gender number confidence gap.
“On Wednesday, the Gender Taskforce, will unveil a groundbreaking set of recommendations to tackle the ‘gender number confidence gap’ in the workplace. The recommendations, developed by a pioneering coalition of businesses and organisations, outline the steps employers can take to drive change and create equal opportunities for women and girls.”
Unless we tackle the confidence crisis head-on, we will continue to see generations of girls being held back by fear rather than ability.
