Lack of attention in maths causes most regret in the UK

It may be the most dreaded lesson on the timetable for many, but maths tops the list of subjects people most wish they had paid greater attention to in school, along with languages.

Over a third of British adults harbour regret at their earlier attitude towards these topics, according to new research conducted by distance-learning specialist Home Learning College.

Other subjects featured on the list include science, with 23 per cent of the vote, history with 22 per cent and English with 19 per cent. The research was conducted as part of UK Home Learning College’s “Welcome Back to Learning” campaign, which sheds light on people’s attitudes towards their previous and ongoing education. When asked to explain why they wish they had focused more in certain subjects, almost a quarter say they would have chosen a different career path, while 16 per cent believe they would have a more rewarding job and earn more money. But the most common reason was simply to feel more fulfilled on a personal level, as mentioned by 40 per cent.

In contrast, seven per cent claimed to have no regret about their lack of dedication in any lesson, claiming they didn’t like anything about school. The top 10 subjects people wish they had paid more attention to in school are maths and languages (34 per cent), science (23), history (22), English (19), geography (18), music (11), ICT (10), art (nine) and design and technology (seven).

“The way in which some subjects are taught at school can make it hard for young people to appreciate their value until later in life,” says Dave Snow, Academic Director at Home Learning College. “As we get older, we are often exposed to situations that require the knowledge we should have acquired in those lessons, which can lead to feelings of disappointment and regret. Similarly, many people find that their career prospects are limited by their earlier approach to education.