Navigating Maths Set Challenges: A Guide for Parents

As parents, we want the best for our children, particularly when it comes to their education. However, it’s not uncommon for teenagers to feel that they aren’t in the right maths set or that they aren’t receiving enough support at school. If your child is experiencing these feelings, here are some steps you can take to address the issue and help them thrive.

1. Listen and Validate Their Feelings

First and foremost, ensure that your teenager feels heard. Let them express their concerns about their current maths set without interruption. Acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that it’s okay to feel this way. Sometimes, knowing that someone is listening can make a significant difference.

2. Assess the Situation

Try to understand the root of the problem. Ask your child specific questions:

- Why do they feel they aren’t in the right set?

- Are they finding the work too easy or too difficult?

- What kind of support do they feel they are lacking?

This will help you pinpoint whether the issue is the difficulty level, teaching style, or something else.

3. Communicate with the School

Arrange a meeting with your child’s maths teacher or the head of the maths department. Discuss your child’s concerns and ask for their perspective. Be sure to:

- Share specific examples of where your child is struggling or excelling.

- Ask about the criteria for set placements and how often they are reviewed.

- Inquire about additional support options, such as after-school help sessions, tutoring, or online resources.

4. Explore Tutoring Options

If the school cannot provide the necessary support, consider hiring a private tutor. A tutor can offer personalised attention and tailor their teaching methods to suit your child’s learning style. Tutors can also help build confidence and fill in any knowledge gaps.

5. Encourage a Growth Mindset

Help your child develop a growth mindset by encouraging them to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Remind them that struggling with a subject doesn’t mean they aren’t capable. Praise their efforts and persistence rather than just their achievements.

6. Use Online Resources

There are many online resources available to support maths learning. Websites like Khan Academy, BBC Bitesize, and IXL offer lessons and practice exercises tailored to different levels. These can be great supplements to schoolwork and provide additional practice.

7. Create a Supportive Home Environment

Ensure that your child has a quiet, comfortable place to study at home. Be available to help with homework if needed, but also encourage them to develop independent study habits. Establish a routine that includes regular study time and breaks to avoid burnout.

8. Monitor Progress and Adjust as Needed

Regularly check in with your child about their progress. Are they feeling more confident? Is the extra support helping? Be prepared to adjust your approach if things aren’t improving. This might mean more frequent communication with the school or trying different tutoring options.

9. Build Self-Advocacy Skills

Encourage your child to speak up for themselves. Teach them how to approach their teachers with questions or concerns. Developing self-advocacy skills will not only help them in maths but in all areas of their education and beyond.

10. Stay Positive and Patient

Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s important to stay positive and patient throughout the process. Celebrate small victories and remind your child of the progress they are making, no matter how incremental it may seem.

Conclusion

Supporting a teenager who feels they aren’t in the right maths set or isn’t getting enough support at school can be challenging. However, with active listening, communication, and the right resources, you can help your child navigate these difficulties and find a path to success. Remember, your support and encouragement play a crucial role in their academic journey. Together, you can turn this challenge into an opportunity for growth and resilience.