Plans to stop children using calculators in schools until they have learned basic maths skills have been welcomed in Kent.

As part of the National Curriculum Review, it is proposed that children will only be allowed to use a calculator during lessons once they have a thorough understanding of basic maths and are able to recite the times tables.

A section of the 11-year-old SATs exam, which involves using a calculator, looks set to be scrapped as well.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Education, Learning and Skills, Mike Whiting, said: “I welcome this common sense approach. It is vital that children are equipped with basic maths skills and are not reliant on technology.

"I am sure this move will also be welcomed by parents and teachers who are keen to make sure that children are learning skills that will take them through life.”

Department for Education statistics show that 18% of pupils in England failed to make the progress expected of them in maths between the ages of seven and eleven.

Hawkinge Gazette and Channel Coast News 2011©