Celebrating Success: Multiply’s Impact
Yesterday, we marked the incredible achievements of the Multiply programme with a special end-of-programme celebration, a fitting tribute to a programme providing adults with essential numeracy skills!
The event, hosted by former BBC Radio presenter, Melvyn Prior, kicked off with an engaging twist on Bingo, where attendees used maths to work out the numbers they had to mark off. Congratulations to the winner Paul Jones, who took home a selection of 2aspire goodies!
Attendees heard from a range of speakers who reflected on Multiply’s success, including Rebecca Clark, Multiply Programme Manager. Rebecca highlighted the positive impact the programme has had on individuals and communities, commenting:
“We are thrilled with the success of Multiply. It has been incredible to see so many adults grow their confidence with numbers, develop new skills, and engage in learning opportunities that make a difference in their daily lives.”
Throughout the past year, Multiply has exceeded targets and expectations, reaching over 2,000 people through outreach efforts and achieving 3,500 course enrolments. Without Multiply, 5,693 adults would not have had the opportunity to build their numeracy skills over the last 3 years, whether that meant helping their children with homework, improving money management, or gaining confidence with numbers.
We also heard from Councillors John Smith and LCC’s Assistant Director for Growth Justin Brown, who both emphasised the importance of numeracy in unlocking opportunities for individuals and communities alike.
The event celebrated the contributions of our Multiply Champions, who have played a crucial role in embracing numeracy within the workplace and community spaces. Champions like Ben Snow (Bishop Grosseteste University), Claire Burton (Lincolnshire Action Trust), and Megan Wright (Hawthorne Tree School) shared inspiring examples of how they have made maths more accessible and engaging, from food focussed workshops for women on probation to pizza-making sessions with parents and children. Chelsea Everatt (Rooted Arts CIC) spoke about how creative approaches like macramé and creative calculations have positively impacted mental well-being, proving that maths can be both practical and enjoyable.
One of the most inspiring stories came from some of the Multiply learners, who worked with Jenny and Taz at VCS to organise a community haunted house in Sleaford, raising over £150 for Macmillan Cancer Support. Their project brought together individuals of all ages, from diverse backgrounds, using real-life maths applications such as budgeting and booking spreadsheets. Reflecting on her journey, a learner shared:
“It was amazing to see what I had achieved without even realising. When Taz showed me, I couldn’t believe it, I finally saw that I could do it.”
Geoff Whitwell (Boston College) also highlighted the hands-on activities Multiply has supported, including Lego-building and fudge-making, which have not only improved numeracy skills but also strengthened community cohesion and encouraged adults back into learning.
Over the past 3 years, Multiply has supported 219 Champions in delivering impactful, engaging programmes that have made a lasting difference. As we wrap up the celebration, we hope that learners continue their journey, building confidence and skills that will support them in their future ambitions.
A huge thank you to everyone who has been part of Multiply – learners, champions, partners, and supporters. Your contributions have helped make this programme a resounding success!