The end of an era: we say goodbye and thank you to two remarkable women

This summer, we say goodbye to two extraordinary women. The NCETM’s Barbara Rodgers and Mary Stevenson are retiring after decades spent transforming mathematics education across England.

Two careers dedicated to maths education

What began as two enthusiastic young NQTs embarking on teaching careers in the maths classroom has evolved into something much bigger. Both Mary and Barbara started as secondary maths teachers before becoming heads of department, but their impact has reached far beyond individual schools. Mary led mathematics programmes at Liverpool Hope University before joining our Secondary Team in 2018, where her expertise quickly became invaluable. Barbara's path took her through strategic leadership roles, including being one of the original Maths Hub Leads, before she joined us in 2018 to work with the System Leadership Team and, more recently, the Targeted Support Team, using her decades of school improvement experience to support schools in the greatest need.

But how best to capture the essence of what these two remarkable women have contributed? NCETM Deputy Director Sue Madgwick spoke to Mary and Barbara to reflect on their long careers in maths education.

Voices from the heart of maths education

Both Mary and Barbara have experienced real change across their many years in education. For Mary, what has mattered most throughout her career is collaboration with other teaching professionals:

‘One of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been in working with colleagues who have given me autonomy and opportunities to try things. Having the trust of others and trusting them in return. Those collaborative and supportive networks and relationships have been so important to me.’

However, many teachers will know there is more to sustained impact than individual relationships. When we asked about the biggest changes they've witnessed, Barbara highlighted the seismic shifts that have shaped modern maths education: the Cockcroft Report (1982), the introduction of the National Curriculum (1988), the work of the National Strategies, and of course, Maths Hubs!

Mary shared her perspective on the current landscape for maths teachers:

‘The reach and depth of the NCETM and Maths Hubs is transforming all aspects of the maths education landscape. We can now see that carefully structured and robust systems are supporting the ongoing spread of ideas and of sustainable teacher development.’

The belief that sustainable change requires both individual passion and systemic support underpins the work of the NCETM and the wider Maths Hubs Programme, and Mary and Barbara have embodied this perfectly.

Looking ahead with hope

Another essential aspect of great teachers is their forward-thinking vision. Although Mary and Barbara are retiring, they're not stepping back from maths education entirely. Mary continues her work with the Hope One World Charity, which supports educational development in Africa and Asia, while Barbara takes up the role of Chair of a Maths Hub Strategic Board, because once you're committed to improving maths education, that commitment rarely ends with retirement!

When we asked about their hopes for the future, both expressed confidence that maths education in England will continue to flourish through the work of the NCETM, Maths Hubs, and the newly launched subject association, AMiE. We wholeheartedly share that optimism.

A heartfelt thank you

If you've been inspired by colleagues who've shaped your practice and your career in some way, you'll understand why this farewell feels particularly poignant. Mary and Barbara haven't just contributed to maths education; they've helped create the collaborative culture that has made the Maths Hubs Programme such a success.

Mary and Barbara – thank you for everything you've given to maths education. Your wisdom, dedication and warmth will be deeply missed, but your influence will continue to ripple through the teachers and leaders you've inspired.

You can discover more about the ongoing work of the NCETM and Maths Hubs on our website and by signing up to our newsletter, where the optimistic and collaborative spirit that Mary and Barbara have championed continues to influence everything we do.