EDUCATION chiefs are to launch a new task force to improve performance in maths in Welsh secondary schools.

The Task and Finish Group will provide independent expert support resulting in a maths action plan for Wales by the summer.

Education minister Huw Lewis announced the launch of the task force following a maths conference in Cardiff yesterday.

The event was an opportunity for secondary school heads of maths departments to share ideas, expertise and best practice on how to engage learners and recommend how improvements in maths could be achieved.

The conference was a key part of a major drive ordered by Mr Lewis following last summer’s GCSE results.

A Welsh Government spokesman said that despite record high overall results, maths was one subject where it was felt there was room for improvement.

Mr Lewis said: “I think it’s fair to say that maths is the one area where progress is not happening as fast as we’d all like.”