Bolton & Bury EBP is the local broker for the National Number Partners Programme, a business volunteering scheme designed to help improve students' numeracy by having fun. With the help of trained volunteers from local businesses, students play simple games and in the process learn more about numbers..

Specially designed games are available for Key Stages 2 and 3. Games for Key Stage 4 students are designed to develop enterprise and financial capability.

Here is an example of just one of the Key Stage 2 games (for ages 8-10). 'Solar System' is a game for 2 or 3 players and focusses on the 6 times table. All of the games are well crafted and visually stimulating.

The EBP is working in partnership with major organisations such as O2 and The Royal Bank of Scotland on this project. We provide training, CRB checks and guidance for all volunteer employees.

The Number Partners Programme benefits all those involved:

Students improve their ability and confidence through the use of child-friendly games and puzzles and the dedicated attention of a Number Partner. Volunteers can develop their personal and business skills though fun and rewarding sessions with the students. Teachers enjoy the extra support that Number Partners volunteers bring. Positive relationships are formed between adults and students in the community.

The EBP is keen to facilitate more partnerships of this nature across the region. Typically, volunteering in this way only takes about an hour each month. Being part of the Number Partners programme is a great way for local businesses and schools to work together.

If you and your organisation would like to help make maths more fun for a generation of school children, contact Kath White on kwhite@boltonburyebp.co.uk .