Free Numeracy Champion training is being made available to local employers, the third sector and community organisations, to support adults to overcome barriers to improving their numeracy skills, Aberdeen City Council announced today (24 March 2025).
ABZWorks, the Council’s Employability and Skills Service, has commissioned National Numeracy to deliver the CPD (Continuing Professional Development) Numeracy Champion training courses, which will see participants take part in two, two-hour online sessions. The free training is restricted to people who live and/or work in Aberdeen.
Councillor Christian Allard, Co-Leader of Aberdeen City Council, said: “The thought of maths can make some people anxious, which is why the Numeracy Champions initiative is a great idea. The training is free, and is a great way to enhance the champion’s skillset while helping others to be more confident around maths. This new found confidence can empower individuals in many ways from budgeting the weekly shop to having the confidence to apply for a new job, a promotion or further education.
“This is a great opportunity ABZWorks is offering local organisations and I would encourage all to get involved as it will be hugely rewarding for employees, volunteers and the people they support.”
Numeracy Champions do not teach maths, but instead aim to help others in workplaces and community settings to build confidence, change mindsets, and signpost resources to support skills learning. This is achieved through gentle and basic conversations about maths and moving away from the mindset of numbers being scary or “I’m not good at maths”. This training approach provides the essential steps needed to get adults started with improving their maths.
Sam Sims, CEO of National Numeracy, said: “National Numeracy is delighted to be working in partnership with Aberdeen City Council to offer fully funded CPD Numeracy Champion training to organisations across Aberdeen. If we want vibrant, resilient, highly competitive regional economies, investing in basic skills at the local level, particularly for those with low numeracy, is essential. For individuals, improved numeracy could give access to broader, more sustainable job opportunities. For employers and regions, it could help attract investment, create jobs and boost local economies.”
Anyone interested in becoming a Numeracy Champion can find more information here or watch this short video.
To sign up to become a Numeracy Champion, please click here.
Numeracy Champions will have access to a wealth of resources and ongoing support from National Numeracy. It is hoped that an Aberdeen network of Numeracy Champions will be developed.
ABZWorks commissioned National Numeracy using Multiply monies from the UK Government.