‘Mathematics is a creative and highly interconnected discipline that has been developed over
centuries providing the solution to some of history’s most intriguing problems. It is essential
to everyday life, critical to science, technology and engineering and necessary for financial
literacy and most forms of employment. A high quality mathematical education therefore
provides a foundation for understanding the world, the ability to reason mathematically, an
appreciation of the power and beauty of mathematics, and a sense of enjoyment and
curiosity about the subject.’ (DfE 2013)