Learners in Ebbw Vale have enhanced their numeracy skills and boosted their confidence by attending classroom based Multiply courses provided by Adult Learning Wales in partnership with Blaenau Gwent County Council. These courses help adults improve their understanding of numbers and maths in everyday life, from managing household budgets to supporting their children with homework, while increasing employment opportunities.

Thanks to the support from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, Multiply courses have been made available to anyone aged 19 and over living in the Blaenau Gwent region. The aim is to help transform the lives of adults across Wales by improving their numeracy skills. These adults might not currently hold a Maths GCSE or level 2 numeracy qualification, and the Multiply Project allows learners to work towards the Essential Skills Wales level 2 qualification in Application of Number, widely recognised by employers in Wales as the equivalent to a Maths GSCE.

Here are some of the reasons why learners in Ebbw Vale have been embracing the Multiply Project:

Cath:
“Through my own struggles with Maths, I could not help my children with their homework. By attending the Multiply classes, I wanted to show my children that anything is possible by gaining my GCSE in Maths. The classes are run in a relaxed atmosphere led by James (tutor), and I enjoy socialising and making new friends, which has made the whole experience even more rewarding.” 

Rebecca:
“I didn’t have any GCSEs when I left school. I’m currently studying childcare and was told that no one will employ me without a Maths GCSE. The Multiply classes have been the stepping stone to help me with my career development. I enjoy attending the classes.”

Mel:
“A Level 2 qualification is needed for most jobs. The Multiply classes have helped me support my kids better and given me the confidence to make new friends. I love the supportive atmosphere provided by ALW. I have attended their courses in the past, and this encouraged me to give Multiply a go.”

Katy:
“I’ve always been interested in improving my maths skills, I’ve realised how important it is in everyday life – from shopping to managing our finances. Thanks to Flying Start’s advice, I learned about the Multiply courses through ALW. I was nervous at first, but James (tutor) has been a great support in helping me overcome my nerves.”

Adult Learning Wales is offering Multiply in different counties across Wales. The courses cover Numeracy Skills for work and life, Numeracy for Parents, Budgeting, Numeracy for ESOL Contextualised Numeracy, Essential Skills Wales level 2 qualification in Application of Number. (GCSE Maths equivalent) and Numeracy Online. If you would like to find out more information, visit our webpage here:

www.adultlearning.wales/about/about-us/the-multiply-project/

Multiply learners’ work:

Multiply learners’ work:

The Multiply programme is delivered through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.