In this episode of The Primary Maths Podcast, Jon and Becky celebrate the role of the maths subject leader. Whether you’ve been leading maths for years or have just been handed the responsibility as September looms, this conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of the role.

Jon shares his own journey of unexpectedly becoming a maths lead during his NQT year, while Becky reflects on her experiences leading maths in a large junior school. Together they consider how subject leaders can shape school culture, raise the profile of maths, and drive meaningful change in teaching and learning.

This week’s Maths of Life takes us on a journey from Ancient Rome to Renaissance Italy to uncover the origins of percentages, why we use them instead of fractions in shops, and why “25% off” feels like more of a bargain than “a quarter off.”

Topics covered include:

• Why percentages became the language of bargains
• The commutative property of percentages (and why it matters)
• First steps for new maths leads in September
• Building a positive maths culture in your school
• Practical ideas for parental engagement
• Where to find support, training, and inspiration

If you’re stepping into maths leadership this year, or simply want to reflect on your own practice, this episode offers encouragement, practical strategies, and a reminder that you are not alone in the role.

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