This week's episode is in celebration of National Numeracy Day 2026, which is on Wednesday 20 May.
A huge thank you to this week's sponsor, UK maths charity, National Numeracy.To find out more about National Numeracy Day, to take the National Numeracy Challenge, and for more resources visit:https://bit.ly/nationalnumeracyday2026
In this special episode celebrating National Numeracy Day, host Rotimi Merriman-Johnson sits down with maths teacher, podcaster, and National Numeracy Ambassador Susan Okereke. Susan shares her journey from studying maths and business to producing for BBC Radio 1Xtra, and ultimately finding her purpose in education. The conversation addresses why nearly half of working-age adults have primary school numeracy levels, the deep-seated emotional anxiety connected to maths, and how to overcome a low number confidence mindset. Susan and Rotimi explore real-world mathematical applications, outline quick calculation hacks, and explain why maths is a vital, empowering tool for everyday life.
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Intro
01:34 - Finding the virtuous cycle in maths
02:40 - Transitioning from student radio to teaching
03:45 - Producing for BBC Radio 1Xtra
04:51 - Launching the Maths Appeal podcast
06:38 - Writing a financial literacy workbook
08:32 - Why adults lack numeracy confidence
09:52 - Tackling emotional maths anxiety issues
10:59 - The primary to secondary school dip
12:35 - Cultural taboos around number skills
13:39 - Are current GCSE exams fit purpose?
16:53 - Essential math skills for real life
19:40 - Tracking time using mathematical frameworks
20:50 - Should numeracy be its own subject?
22:06 - Rethinking the GCSE resit structure
24:24 - Tips for parents helping with homework
26:22 - Attainment vs capability in school setting
28:20 - Challenges of teaching mixed attainment classes
29:25 - Free adult numeracy training tools
30:59 - How parenting influences classroom teaching
33:57 - Crucial human skills for AI era
36:56 - Extrapolating technology decades into future
41:46 - Speed multiplying by eleven hack
43:55 - Training routines of Countdown mathematicians
45:59 - National Numeracy Day school plans
48:12 - Final thoughts: What community means
FOLLOW
The Mr MoneyJar Show
Instagram: instagram.com/themrmoneyjarshow
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mr-moneyjar-show/id1559725838
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4iO5j7VoYYkEemyleLnu00
TikTok: tiktok.com/@themrmoneyjarshow
X: x.com/themrmoneyjarshow
YouTube: youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshow
Website: https://mrmoneyjar.com
If you enjoyed this week's episode, please SUBSCRIBE:
https://www.youtube.com/@themrmoneyjarshow