Mathematical Association

The Mathematical Association is a professional society that works to support and improve mathematics education in the UK. It brings together teachers, educators, and people interested in math to share ideas and best practices. The association provides resources, training, and support to help students of all ages learn mathematics better and more enjoyably.

Founded to promote the teaching and learning of mathematics, the Mathematical Association aims to make math accessible and interesting for everyone. It organizes conferences, publishes journals, and creates educational materials that help teachers enhance their lessons. By fostering a community of math enthusiasts, the association helps ensure that mathematics remains a vital and engaging subject in schools across the United Kingdom.

History

The Mathematical Association was founded in 1871 as the Association for the Improvement of Geometrical Teaching and was renamed in 1897. It was the first teachers' subject organisation formed in England. In 1951, Mary Cartwright became its first female president. During the 1960s, the Association supported the 11-plus system while comprehensive education was being introduced.

Function

The Mathematical Association works to improve the teaching of mathematics and help students and teachers communicate about the subject. Since 1894, it has published The Mathematical Gazette. The group also takes part in the British Congress of Mathematics Education, which happens every four years and is organized by the Joint Mathematical Council. Each year, the Association meets during this Congress for its annual general meeting.

Structure

The Mathematical Association is based in the south-east of Leicester on London Road, near De Montfort University. It has seven specialist committees in addition to its main council.

Its branches often work together with the Association of Teachers of Mathematics and are located in areas such as Birmingham, Cambridge, East Midlands, Exeter, and many others including London, Greater Manchester, and Yorkshire.

Main article: Association of Teachers of Mathematics

Past presidents

The Mathematical Association has had many leaders over the years. Some early leaders include Thomas Archer Hirst in 1871 and Robert Baldwin Hayward in 1878.

More recent presidents include Mary Cartwright in 1951, Michael Atiyah in 1981, and Professor Hannah Fry in 2020. The association continues to have new leaders, with Professor Paul Glaister serving as president in 2025.

Arms

The Mathematical Association has its own coat of arms, which serves as a symbol of its identity and heritage. This emblem reflects the organization's commitment to promoting mathematics education and its long-standing presence in the United Kingdom.