YATJA urges action to correct CSEC mathematics struggles in Jamaica

From left: Sean Gillings, Tutor and Founder of Your Actuary Tutor JA (YATJA), stands alongside students Collesha Nelson, Shanae Williams, Tashika Smith, and Kaylia Watson during a recent visit to Mona High School. Latest News, News April 7, 2026 YATJA urges action to correct CSEC mathematics struggles in Jamaica KINGSTON, Jamaica — A new initiative, For Your Actuary Tutor JA (YATJA), is working to improve CSEC mathematics performance in Jamaica by helping students build confidence and understanding ahead of exams. Led by Sean Gillings, a past student of Ardenne High School, the programme combines school visits, an interactive platform, and targeted exam strategies to tackle one of the country’s most challenging subjects.

“Mathematics is a very important subject—it’s a prerequisite for so many careers. It’s vital, and yet it continues to be one of the most failed subjects here in Jamaica. When I looked at the statistics, I knew we had to step in.

We need to do more, and I want to make a difference,” Gillings expressed.

In 2025, Jamaica saw improved CSEC mathematics results, with 60 per cent of students passing (Grades 1-3), up from 39 per cent in 2024 and 43 per cent in 2023.

Despite this progress, consistent improvement remains a challenge. Driven by that purpose, YATJA has been actively engaging students where they are. The team recently visited Mona High School and Excelsior High School, working directly with students to break down difficult concepts, share practical CXC strategies, and tackle the very topics that often cause the most anxiety.

Tutor and Founder of Your Actuary Tutor JA (YATJA), Sean Gillings, interacts with students of Mona High School during a recent visit, providing guidance and support as they prepare for their CSEC examinations. These sessions go beyond formulas—they focus on rebuilding confidence. At Mona High School, head of mathematics, Lori-Anne McLoud, welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of support systems that help students feel more capable and less intimidated as exams approach.

“It was a pleasure hosting YATJA. The session was engaging, insightful, and well-received by our students,” she delivered. Supporting this mission is a dedicated academic team, including Arielle Johnson and Mikhai Sillpatt, both students of the University of the West Indies, who bring both expertise and relatability to the students they engage.

But YATJA’s reach doesn’t stop in the classroom. Through its innovative web-based platform, students are given access to CXC past paper questions in a structured, progressive format designed to build mastery step by step.

“The platform is graded upward—it shows you the levels you need to be comfortable with before moving on. If those levels aren’t solid, progress becomes difficult. That’s what we’re trying to fix,” Gillings explained.

In a bold but intentional move, the platform does not provide direct solutions.

“We made a decision not to include answers because when students see solutions too quickly, the effort drops. Real learning happens in the struggle—in trying to figure it out. That’s how critical thinking is built,” he added.

Instead, the system evaluates performance, highlights strengths and weaknesses, and encourages students to think independently—while still offering the option for one-on-one guidance when additional support is needed. As part of its push to support students during this critical period, YATJA is currently offering a limited-time promotion on the platform, giving students access to valuable past paper practice until April 15. The initiative also hosts its highly effective bootcamp programme, known for its intensive, results-driven approach to exam preparation.

Over the past two and a half years, the bootcamp has maintained an impressive 80 per cent success rate, reinforcing its impact in helping students improve their performance and build confidence in mathematics. While registration typically opens earlier in the year, students and parents are encouraged to stay connected for future enrolment opportunities. At its core, YATJA is sending a powerful message—mathematics is not something to fear but something to face, understand, and ultimately conquer.

And with the right support, every student has that ability.