This article proposes a reframing of the purposes of mathematics education for the twenty-first century that combines apparently divergent philosophical approaches, arguing that the consequent empowerment should as a matter of individual equity be available to all young people (as well as of benefit to wider society). It suggests that the global mathematics attainment 'spotlight', and the English policy context in particular, offer both opportunities and constraints for the development of such a high-quality mathematics education. The article also discusses the challenging implications for the curriculum, and for the nature of teacher expertise, particularly subject-specific expertise, that is needed.