The Prime Minister’s idea that all pupils in England should learn some form of math by the age of 18 would be difficult to implement, experts say.
A panel of specialists told the Education Selection Committee that they broadly support the “worthy ambition.”
However, a shortage of math teachers and a focus on exams meant “fundamental reforms” were needed, they said.
It comes after Rishi Sunak said the UK needs to “reinvent our approach to numeracy”.
Last month, Mr. Sunak said: “In a world where data is everywhere and statistics underpin every job, letting our kids down is letting our kids out into this world without those skills.”
The Education Committee had previously asked a group of experts what a system of studying mathematics up to 18 should look like.
It has been heard that currently a third of young people are failing their GCSE in mathematics, leading to “alienation and detachment”.
Niamh Sweeney, deputy general secretary of the National Education Union, said part of the problem is that the focus is on passing tests at a young age, rather than enjoying learning math.
She said Mr Sunak’s “unfortunate announcement” was “not accompanied by a discussion about the workforce”.
The majority of math teachers are “science, geography or physical education teachers” and it is “really difficult” to teach outside of their subject and maintain high standards, she told the panel.
A focus on math could have a significant upside to employability and longer-term economic benefits, said National Numeracy executive director Sam Sims.
About 175,000 young people fail GCSE math each year, and that can have a significant impact on their confidence, he said.
He said these young people “fail by design” because of the way the rating system works.
Mr Sims suggested it could be more like a driving test or “passport-like certification” that anyone can pass and give young people more confidence.
Sir Martin Taylor, chairman of the Royal Society’s Advisory Committee on Mathematical Education, says there is a need for “fundamental reform”.
He believes “what” is being taught is key, and that students need 21st-century skills, including data literacy, that employers demand.
Mr Sunak’s ambitions were largely welcomed when they were announced, but many questioned how they would work in practice.
The Department of Education said its policy teams are currently working out some options.
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