Why Context Matters: A Fresh Perspective on Maths, English and Apprenticeships
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over years of working with training and apprenticeship providers, it’s this: when we contextualise Maths and English, we unlock learning in a way that sticks. It’s not just about helping learners pass assessments, it’s about giving them skills that make sense in their working world.
I’ve always had a passion for Maths, not so much English and really struggled with this at school. And while I was lucky enough to go to a Grammar School, that type of formal education did not sit well with how I learn and I wouldn’t say it was an environment I thrived in!
It’s when I left school and started on vocational courses that I realised the true value of learning and education. That’s partly what drives me today, I have recognised that poor levels of Literacy and Numeracy really hold people back in so many ways and with 2023 figures showing that £8.5 million working age adults fall into this category, as a country we have a recognised and long term problem.
I want to change the way we present Maths and English to learners, especially those on vocational pathways. These subjects should never be taught in isolation. When integrated properly into apprenticeship standards and vocational learning, they come to life, and learners start to see the relevance and value of what they’re being taught.
Connecting functional skills with real-world application
Recently, I ran a workshop focused on linking Maths and English to apprenticeship standards. The participants, mainly functional skills tutors, were surprised by how powerful it was to look at their subjects through a vocational lens. Suddenly, the link between what they were teaching and what learners were doing on the job became much clearer.
This is the approach I believe we need to adopt more widely. Functional skills aren’t just a fallback for learners who didn’t pass GCSEs. They’re designed to assess real-world application, and that’s exactly what most apprentices need. It’s one thing to know how to calculate percentages; it’s another to apply that knowledge confidently while working on a business task or trade-based project.
What’s often missing is the support and structure to make this kind of contextual learning the norm. Maths and English are all too often and sadly still not given enough dedicated time or priority within many apprenticeship programmes. And while the expectation to deliver results remains, the resources and strategy often don’t match up.
Why contextualising Maths and English matters now more than ever
The challenges around adult literacy and numeracy aren’t new, but they are persistent, and they impact far more than just individual learners. Low levels of basic skills affect productivity, confidence, employability and the wider economy.
Government reports from both 2015 and 2022 highlight the need for urgent action. Yet many training providers are still expected to deliver functional skills with limited time, staff, or investment.
In some cases, Maths and English become afterthoughts rather than integrated, purposeful parts of the learner journey. This is particularly relevant since the announcement that Maths and English attainment at Level 2 are no longer mandatory in order to complete an apprenticeship for adults aged over 19.
What’s needed is a shift, not just in policy but in general mindset and culture. We need to help learners, employers, vocational educators and providers, see that these aren’t “school subjects” being repeated. They’re essential workplace skills that deserve to be taught with creativity, relevance and confidence.
Maths, English and Apprenticeships: small steps, big impact
I’m currently exploring new ways to help providers and tutors bring these subjects to life, whether that’s through taster sessions, short videos, or practical resources that support contextualisation. I’m also keen to make better use of national awareness days and campaigns to spark conversations around numeracy and literacy in a way that feels fresh and engaging.
Visual content has a big part to play too. I’ve been looking at how we can apply the picture superiority effect, which shows people remember visuals better than words, to support learning and retention. Platforms like Canva and image banks have made it easier than ever to create content that’s not just informative but memorable.
Let’s keep the conversation going
If you’re a training provider, tutor or organisation delivering apprenticeships, I’d love to hear how you’re approaching contextualisation in your own programmes. Are your Vocational and Maths and English sessions aligned with what learners are doing in the workplace? Is there space to do more?
Because if we get this right, if we embed functional skills in a way that truly supports application, we’re not just helping learners pass a test. We’re helping them succeed in their roles, grow their confidence and build skills that last a lifetime.