Maths intervention programme: supporting pupil progress
This page is a resource for schools looking for support to help close their maths attainment gap. It outlines how Action Tutoring’s evidence-based programme works with your school to make a significant impact at both primary and secondary levels.
Looking for a proven, affordable way to boost maths attainment?
Action Tutoring’s subsidised tuition works alongside your teaching, providing expert, targeted support that helps disadvantaged pupils make lasting progress.
What is a maths intervention programme?
A maths intervention programme is a structured, targeted tutoring solution designed to elevate the attainment of pupils who are working below age-related expectations.
The core aims of effective intervention are to:
- Diagnose gaps: Identify specific foundational areas where pupils have critical learning gaps.
- Deliver targeted tutoring: Provide focused, high-impact instruction to address these gaps directly.
- Achieve attainment: Help pupils reach or exceed the expected levels of mathematical understanding for their year group.
These programmes are delivered through one-to-one or small group sessions. Crucially, this support is designed to complement regular classroom teaching, giving pupils the necessary time and space to revisit, reinforce, and master key mathematical concepts.
Why is a maths intervention programme important?
Maths is a foundational subject, critical for a pupil’s academic journey and future success. Struggling in this subject creates a powerful negative cycle that impacts more than just exam results.
For pupils facing socio-economic disadvantage, the risk of not reaching national standards is dramatically higher than their non-disadvantaged peers. Without focused, external support, the gap between these pupils and their more affluent peers will widen.
The role of Action Tutoring in maths intervention
We specialise in providing high-quality, evidence-based tutoring specifically designed to support disadvantaged pupils.
Our maths intervention programme is built to serve pupils with identified learning gaps, prioritising those eligible for Pupil Premium funding.
We offer bespoke maths intervention programmes at both primary and secondary levels. Our ultimate goal is to raise attainment and significantly reduce the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.
‘Before I started my tutoring sessions, I dreaded it because I didn’t enjoy it [maths]. But my tutoring sessions were amazing and really helped boost my confidence in maths.‘
Dylan, Year 11 pupil in Bristol
How Action Tutoring works with schools
At Action Tutoring, we work in partnership with schools to ensure our tutoring is fully aligned with the curriculum and the specific needs your cohort. Here’s how our maths tutoring programme works:
- Identifying pupils:
Schools work with Action Tutoring to identify pupils who would benefit most from additional support in maths. We ask that schools prioritise those who are eligible for Pupil Premium funding and who have been identified as underachieving in maths compared to their peers. - Tailored tutoring sessions:
We provide carefully matched volunteer tutors who are trained to deliver structured tutoring sessions in maths. These sessions are delivered either in-person at the school or online. Tutors focus on key topics where pupils need extra support, such as number fluency, fractions, or algebra and to prepare them for their exams. - Small group support:
Tutoring is typically delivered in small groups (2-3 pupils per tutor), ensuring each pupil receives personalised attention. This small group setting also allows for collaborative learning, where pupils can support each other while receiving guidance from their tutor. - Regular progress monitoring:
Action Tutoring’s progress checks and feedback ensure that tutoring sessions are responsive to pupils’ evolving needs. This ongoing evaluation helps to measure the impact of the intervention and make any necessary adjustments. - Curriculum alignment:
Our tutoring sessions are aligned with the national curriculum, ensuring that pupils receive support that directly complements what they are learning in class. This helps to reinforce key concepts and builds pupils’ confidence in applying their skills in the classroom. You can take a look at our maths curriculum guides here:
‘What I particularly value about Action Tutoring is their adaptability and responsiveness. For example, the maths resources were tailored to better align with our teaching methods, and I was included in discussions about how the charity tracks student progress through baseline and progress assessments. From the CEO to the programme managers, coordinators, and volunteer tutors, everyone at Action Tutoring is fully dedicated to supporting our students.‘
Jobe Swingler, Assistant Headteacher at North Birmingham Academy
The impact of Action Tutoring’s maths intervention at primary level
At primary level, Action Tutoring’s maths intervention programme helps pupils build a strong foundation in key mathematical skills. Early intervention is crucial, as research shows that pupils who fall behind in maths during primary school are less likely to achieve expected standards later on.
In 2025, children tutored in maths were 20% more likely to meet the expected standard than other disadvantaged pupils nationally. Teachers choose children to take part in Action Tutoring programmes who they know are at particular risk of not meeting this benchmark in their key stage 2 SATs.
Impact at secondary level
Action Tutoring’s maths intervention at this stage focuses on key GCSE topics, helping pupils to overcome specific barriers to learning. Whether it’s mastering algebra, understanding geometry, or improving problem-solving techniques, our tutors work closely with pupils to ensure they are prepared for their exams.
In 2025, disadvantaged pupils attending 10 or more sessions increased their chances of passing GCSE maths by 13%, in comparison to the national pass rate.
You can read more about our impact and our latest impact report here.
‘I would recommend Action Tutoring to other schools without question. I would recommend them for their impact, the confidence they instil in children every year, their flexibility to find the right approach so that each child can excel, their professionalism and for the amazing progress children make as a direct result of their tuition.‘
Erika Eisele, Headteacher at Dalmain Primary School in London
Interested in high impact, low cost tutoring provision?
By working with Action Tutoring, schools can offer their pupils personalised tutoring that complements classroom learning and addresses individual needs. Whether at primary or secondary level, our maths intervention programme is proven to boost attainment, build confidence, and close the gap between disadvantaged pupils and their peers.
Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of children from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping them succeed in maths and beyond. To find out more about how Action Tutoring can work with your school, you can get in touch below:
