I understand that there is a shortage of mathematics teachers. I also understand that there is some concern about the ageing population and the danger of the elderly being a burden on the younger generation. I have a suggestion which helps with both these problems.
There are many qualified and experienced mathematicians and ex-maths teachers who are over retirement age and therefore ineligible for teaching posts. Remove this restriction.
I am a case in point. I am 70 and very well quaified in maths. I am also a qualified teacher and have experience in secondary and tertiary level teaching as well as research in chemical physics. My original degree is in chemistry (Oxford) and I have recently obtained various advanced qualifications in maths at the Open University.
I am willing to teach at any level, anywhere. Yet so far as I am aware I am not likely to be acceptable, purely on grounds of age.
Dr F E Watson
34 Boxgrove Avenue
Guildford, Surrey
