Durham Mathematics School

Coming soon. A maths-rich specialist school. Inspiring the next generation of mathematicians. Opening opportunities for young people in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham, Cumbria and (North) North Yorkshire.

The only one of its kind in the region, Durham Mathematics School currently plans to open its doors for talented young mathematicians in the near future.

We will offer state-funded A Level courses to Year 12 and 13 students who would not otherwise have access to strong post-16 mathematics education.

Our base in Durham City will provide a vibrant and inclusive community, where our students will grow in confidence and thrive in their studies. Here, students will be able to explore their passion for Mathematics. They will be challenged, but supported to succeed.

We will deliver professional development opportunities for teachers and outreach activities within schools. Through this, we will attract the brightest mathematicians and the most innovative teachers to the region, raising the bar in mathematics education for all.

Developed in partnership between Durham University and Durham Sixth Form Centre, the School will benefit from the expertise of both outstanding institutions. Together, we will ensure the next generation of students in the region have the mathematical skills needed to succeed, whatever their chosen pathway.

“The experience of Exeter shows that such a school can have a significant regional impact on the level of interest and attainment in mathematics, something which is sharply needed.”

Curriculum

Students at maths schools must study A level Maths and A level Further Maths and have the option to study A level Physics and/or A level Computer Science. Students at DMS also have the added opportunity to study an A level course in our partner school, Durham Sixth Form Centre as part of their curriculum. Beyond excellence in delivering the subjects offered, students, in the close-knit, maths rich environment, will work with Durham University who will provide a greater focus on wider mathematical problem solving.

Facilities

Opening in a state of the art, purpose-built innovative structure, designed to inspire intellectual curiosity and collaboration. Its architecture reflects precision and symmetry, with clean lines, glass facades, and geometric patterns that evoke mathematical principles like the Fibonacci sequence and tessellations. Inside, bright, open spaces feature floor-to-ceiling whiteboards and movable walls, allowing flexible configurations for small group discussions and lectures. Each classroom will be equipped with digital boards and interactive technology to facilitate hands-on learning.

At the heart of the building is a central atrium. This area serves as a communal hub for students to collaborate and connect across all levels. Dedicated labs for coding, data science, and cryptography are filled with advanced computers and VR systems for immersive exploration, generously funded by Atom Bank.

A rooftop terrace offers panoramic views across the city and serves as a space for applied mathematics experiments and relaxation. The building is environmentally friendly underscoring the school’s commitment to sustainable and forward-thinking education.

The DMS also has boarding facilities to enable students an opportunity to access the school from further afield.

Video of the scale model

What Maths means to us and the community?

‘Maths Schools The Government should commit to on-going core funding for Maths Schools and should “unpause” its decisions on opening new schools for Durham and Nottingham. To do otherwise risks damaging efforts to ensure more equitable access to mathematical science study at the highest levels in two of the UK’s most under-performing regions.’

Evidence presented by Lynne McClure OBE, when the AcadMathSci gave evidence in a House of Lords Science & Technology Committee session – April 2025.

Lynne McClure OBE

British Mathematics Educator

‘Does the Minister from DSIT agree that one of the best ways to enhance the study of mathematical sciences is to have further university-sponsored maths schools? There are now eight; I believe there are three more opening soon, but we could do more if the Government gave them some more money.’ Extract from the Hansard, The Duke of Wellington – April 2025.

The Duke Of Wellington

Member of the House of Lords

”I am delighted to learn of the work you are doing, particularly with Durham University, to break down barriers to entry into the most competitive institutions, unlocking opportunities for young people in and around the North East. Not to mention your plans for this year to provide more outreach activities with state schools across the region, developing their mathematical skills, understanding and outcomes.

This work is very important, and widening the participation in science technology, engineering and maths subjects for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities, disadvantaged and under-represented students, aligns with the heart of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity and ensure every child has access to the best life chances.”

Catherine McKinnell MP

Minister for School Standards

“The specialist maths schools are exceptional. King’s Maths School and Exeter Maths School are top rated sixth forms, with amazing value added scores and Oxbridge entry. Government should commit to on-going core funding and “un-pause’ its decisions on new schools for Durham and Nottingham. XTX donates ~£1.5m annually to the Maths School Network for curriculum and outreach, but core funding is crucial”.

Alexander Gerko

CEO of XTX Markets

“Education is our collective investment in understanding the world and securing the future. Education is the great social and economic equalizer. It lowers the barriers to opportunity and drives social mobility and positive life outcomes. It offers everyone the chance to develop knowledge and learn skills to transform themselves and their communities. It helps us adapt to new demands and challenges.”

Dr Fiona Hill CMG

Chancellor of Durham University, defence advisor to the UK government and Senior Fellow at The Brookings Institution, Washington DC

“Communities in the North have a strong sense of place and purpose. For regional development to succeed, we need to develop and retain the talent of young people. Durham Mathematics School has a crucial part to play in that process.”

Dr Ed Twiddy

Co-founder of Atom Bank and former Director of the North East LEP