results for math next year with the launch of a new standardised learning package for schools -- but has urged parents to get on board.

All primary schools across the Island are starting to work from the new mathematics text books called Math Advantage this term, which is based on the principle that every child can be successful.

Each school has provided initial training to every teacher in how to deliver the texts, which are designed to be accessible to all students.

Materials are provided to enable teaching methods to be adapted to the needs of different pupils with varying abilities.

But most importantly, the introduction of Math Advantage means that every primary school across the Island is teaching to the same standard set by the education authority.

A spokeswoman for the education department said the texts helped children think about math problems, rather than taught them to memorise rules and procedures.

And she said teachers were encouraged to use hands on activities and every day experiences to investigate mathematical concepts and to make links to other subjects and cultures.

Mr. Scott said: "By introducing Math Advantage, we have ensured that every primary school is teaching to the same standard.

"Teachers have now been trained and have the texts that they need to teach mathematics in a fun way while making sure that they cater for all the children in their class, whatever their ability.

"We introduced Literacy Place last year and already it has had an impact on the students' test results.

"I hope to see similar improvements in mathematics by the end of this school year''.

But the education department said teachers and text books could not do it alone.

The spokeswoman added: "A strong partnership between home and school helps students to succeed in mathematics.

"Sometimes parents worry that they can't help because they are not good at math. But parents or other adults can always help just by supporting their child's learning and asking them about the mathematics they learnt at school each day.

"Math Advantage provides a Home Page at the beginning of each unit, which tells parents about what students have been learning.

"The Home Page provides a description of the lesson and suggests activities that parents can use to help their child practise what has been learnt.'' Chairwoman of the National Parent Teacher Association Wendy Augustus said she did not know enough about the new standardised learning programme yet, but was hoping to meet with the education department next week to talk about its progress.

And she agreed that parents should be fully involved in their children's learning, but said so far she had not seen the math text book belonging to her primary-aged child.

She added: "We do know something about it because we were invited to the launch, but really we need a lot more information.

"We will be reviewing it next week and talking to different people, hopefully, including somebody from the education department.

"I have not seen my child home with the book yet, but that is something I would like to see. Parents should have a full understanding of what it is their child is learning.

"I don't suppose we will know properly how successful it has been until the test results next year. The proof will be in the pudding.''