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Durham Mathematics School Transforming lives through education

Steering Group Maths Outreach

The University Maths School Idea

University maths schools are 16-19 state schools that immerse students in the challenge, creativity and life-changing opportunities of maths and maths-related subjects. Founded by and closely linked to leading universities, these schools offer a specialist STEM curriculum of exceptional quality and a vibrant community for budding mathematicians. They are engines of social mobility, working with students from under-represented groups to widen participation in high-quality STEM degrees and careers.

Why Maths?

Why not! Studying mathematics develops critical problem-solving, analytical, and logical skills applicable across life and work. It nurtures discipline and resilience, supporting fields like engineering, finance, data science, and technology. Beyond career opportunities, maths enhances cognitive abilities—improving memory, concentration, and spatial reasoning—and is useful in everyday tasks like budgeting and planning.

As a foundation for scientific and technological advancements, maths also offers transferable skills, benefiting areas like psychology and law. Ultimately, a maths background sharpens judgement and fosters a mindset of perseverance, equipping individuals to tackle complex challenges in academic, professional, and personal realms.

The secrets of the universe

Students dig deep into maths and physics to uncover the best explanations we have for how the world works, developing a rich understanding of mathematical ideas alongside the confidence to think creatively and rigorously to solve problems.

Maths and much more

Maths schools’ core curriculum of A Levels in Maths, Further Maths and Science is enriched by additional subject choices, university-linked academic programmes and extra-curricular activities that develop the skills students need to thrive in life beyond school.

Real life STEM challenges

Students develop their ability to conduct research, work in teams and present their ideas by engaging in projects with a demanding, real-world dimension, in partnership with university academics and industry professionals.

"Enjoy going to a place with a new perspective, it will be priceless, enriching and shocking, you will see that people aren’t that different.’’

Durham University

Every maths school is founded by and run in close partnership with a university with a leading mathematics department. Durham University provides governance, opportunities for extension and challenge, access to university facilities and personnel, and support to widen participation in the mathematical sciences.

Durham Sixth Form Centre

Durham Sixth Form Centre acts as an academic and structural partner to Durham Mathematics School. Alongside Durham University it is one of the founding organisations. The Centre shares resources and expertise in order to benefit the wider curriculum and will offer courses, experiences and collaborative enrichment programmes outside the STEM fields.

Providence Learning Partnership

Providence Learning Partnership plays a pivotal role in the establishment of Durham Mathematics School by providing the operational and educational framework necessary for its success. Providence Learning Partnership is responsible for managing the curriculum, ensuring high teaching standards, and fostering an inclusive and rigorous academic environment.

Outreach

Our aim is to inspire and support students from all backgrounds to develop their mathematical talents and pursue higher education in STEM fields. University maths schools offer a range of outreach programs and events that provide stimulating and enriching experiences for students of all ages, from primary school to pre-university level. These programs increase interest and participation in mathematics, improve attainment and progression, and encourage students from underrepresented groups to pursue STEM careers.

Working with Industry

Our industry partners help students enrich their learning with real world thinking through mentoring, internships, and workshops – and by supporting the work of the maths schools with sponsorship and funding. Students are able to learn about the wide range of enrichment opportunities available to them and participate in projects with real-world dimensions that give them a taste for a future in STEM-related fields.

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