MFAL - focus on breaking down barriers and building futures!

At Mathematics for a Lifetime (MFAL), we are committed to making this a reality.

We are a charitable trust driven by the belief that mathematical education is a tool to eliminating inequalities and barriers in the lives of less fortunate children, youth, and new immigrants throughout New Zealand.

Our work extends beyond just numbers.

We connect communities, providing professional mathematical tuition and support that enhances not only academic skills but also a child's overall well-being and quality of life.

This means families in financial stress can access the same educational opportunities as other children, fostering confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.

Discover how you can help us empower the next generation.

I would like to know more!

I would like to be a SponsorJoin Keith Pennell of Brown Pennell Ltd, a long term supporter and Sponsor of MFAL. 'Educated children grow into empowered adults who can give back to their communities, creating a cycle of positive change.' Click Keith's image above for options to join us.

Math Mates for Kids ClubIt's easy! You can choose just the right amount that suits your budget. Join us in our mission to empower the next generation through the power of education . Click the image above.

Help us spread the word!Quality T-shirts and caps are just the beginning! Stand out in the crowd, helping kids in your community. Take a look at our Merch shop :)

Find out more

Together we can make a difference

Imagine the joy of knowing that your support is helping a child overcome barriers, dream big and discover their love for mathematics. By subscribing for MFAL you are planting the seeds of hope and opportunity.

Your generosity reaches far beyond a child learning mathematics. It touches the hearts of children, inspires their dreams, and builds a foundation for a future filled with possibilities. Subscribe now and be part of this extraordinary journey.

Join your Math Mates for Kids Club

Our Initiatives

Tuition ProgrammesBusiness or community sponsors provide funding for a set number of children to receive one-to-one in person or online tutoring

Fun with Numbers Programme - Former refugees and new immigrant children to NZ.A programme to help immigrant and refugee children learn language and culture, connect with other immigrant families, have fun with maths, and build their school confidence by realising that maths is globally the same.

Online CoursesProviding teachers and students with new tools and different ways to learn, to create confident pupils and boost key skills.

Meet a few of our students who have Mathematics funding.

Fun with Numbers pilot programme

Learn more

Mathematics for a Lifetime News

Breaking down barriers and transforming lives.

July 11th 2025A charitable trust has hit a milestone, helping more than 1000 children from low-income families with maths. Eight years ago, Te Awamutu-based Mathematics for a Lifetime chairperson and founder JeanRead more

Hannah joins us

June 4th 2025Kia ora. My name is Hannah Petersen and I teach year 3 and 4 in Hamilton. My reason for teaching and joining MFAL is wanting to make every student feel successful and valued. Because mathematics isRead more

Knighton Normal School: Is this the most diverse school in New Zealand?

November 14th 2024In a classroom filled with boisterous new entrants, six-year-old Emmanuel is silent. He clenches his fist around a handful of dominoes. His sister, Hannah, eight, reaches over and gently prises oneRead more

Welcome to the Board Graeme

June 7th 2024I'm delighted to share that I've joined the MFAL Trust. Since first learning about the Trust, I've been inspired by its vision and the lasting impact it has on children's lives. It's a privilege to nRead more

Demitriess nails it!

May 17th 2024Demitriess has expressed excitement for each session and excitement in embracing new challenges. Last term, my concern was that he lost a lot of confidence over mistakes and found it difficult toRead more

Cicada bravely speaks

May 3rd 2024Hi my name is Cicada, I have been going to maths for three years. It is now my favorite subject at school. Thank you Jean and my teacher Margaret. Also thank you to my sponsors Mr and Mrs Selkirk,Read more

Waipa Networks partnership

May 3rd 2024Waipā Networks sponsored The Mountain Movie Fundraiser held at The Regent Theatre Te Awamutu this month. The event was organized to support the Mathematics For A Lifetime (MFAL) Charitable Trust, aRead more

Xavier speaks up

May 3rd 2024Good evening my name is Xavier Shields. In Year 8 I was given the opportunity to receive a scholarship for maths tuition with Maths for a Lifetime. I wasn't to know that this would be life-changingRead more

Answer to New Zealand's maths problem remains elusive.

October 24th 2023 At primary and intermediate school, Megan was a quick learner. She flew through most subjects, scoring good marks in an advanced learning programme. But maths made her feel sick to her stomach. NowRead more

Welcome Marrissa - new Approved Tutor

July 4th 2023Ngaa mihi nui e te whaanau my name is Marrissa Rawiri-Flogdell. I currently teach at Hamilton North School. My reason for supporting and joining MFAL is that I want to give back to the community. OurRead more

Welcome Megan

May 25th 2023As a parent and a photographer working with young children, I'm passionate about children having strong foundations that set them up for the rest of their life. So much of a person's happiness, succeRead more

Narelle Brooks

February 10th 2023I have joined the team at MFAL as administrator as I am highly passionate about helping others. Being involved with MFAL is a huge honour. Jean's set up of this Charitable Trust allows theRead more

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Learn about MFAL

We've done a count! One thousand and twenty nine students have been helped since MFAL began! Do you struggle to decide which charities to support? Do you feel overwhelmed by the vast selection of organisations, unsure of which ones to trust with your hard-earned money? Introducing Mathematics for a Lifetime - the perfect solution to take the stress out of giving. Our Trust helps you base your giving on your values and interests, allowing you to easily track your help providing simple giving for one-time gifts or monthly giving. Make your giving efforts count with Mathematics for a Lifetime Charitable Trust. Invest in this cause and organisation for kiwi kids whose lives you care about most today! Come join our team of people making a difference in their communities.

Contact us or jump onto our website.

jean@mfal.org.nz

www.mfal.org.nz

Transforming lives

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