Essex Year of Numbers is a countywide campaign that aims to inspire a love of learning, with a focus on numeracy. It is a year of exciting learning opportunities, fun events and initiatives aimed at children aged 0 to 18-years-old. The events aim to give every child’s maths skills a magic boost.

Parents can also access guidance and support through the programme to help build numbers and learning into homelife. Parents, caregivers and family members play a vital role in a child’s education. You can support children at home with homework and number-based learning.

Low numeracy skills can disadvantage people later in life and lead to problems such as debt, unemployment and even poor health. Essex Year of Numbers will help people of all ages and backgrounds to improve their numeracy skills and feel confident using maths.

The 'Essex Year of...' app will inspire you and your child to enjoy the magic of maths with confidence. You will find useful learning resources and information about upcoming events at local libraries.

Download the Essex Year of app from the App Store 

What are the 'Read and Count with Me Under a Tree' book bags?

'Read and Count with Me Under a Tree' are special bags containing some lovely picture books to share with your little ones in the great outdoors to encourage literary, numeracy and a love of nature from an early age. Titles include ‘Mad About Minibeasts’ by Giles Andreae and a selection of other outdoor-themed stories.

The bags contain a ground sheet for you and your children to sit on and lots of activity ideas to try including seasonal spotter’s guides – see what you can spot and count how many of each!

The bags can be borrowed to use in the Essex Country Parks and from libraries to use in your local green space.