Strength in Numbers

Strength in Numbers: Durham Mathematics School Celebrates Collaboration Through U-Maths Network

Durham Mathematics School is proud to be a member of the U-Maths network—a national collaboration of university-backed mathematics schools dedicated to advancing both mathematical excellence and social equity. This partnership places our school within a community of institutions that are not only achieving outstanding academic outcomes, but are also shaping the future of maths education in the UK.

At the heart of this mission is a shared commitment to widen participation in the mathematical sciences. Across the network, more than 12% of students are eligible for Free School Meals—more than double the national average for Further Mathematics cohorts. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds in maths schools achieve, on average, a full grade higher per A Level than their peers nationally. This is a testament to the power of specialist teaching, enrichment, and inclusive outreach.

Governor Network Day: Driving Strategic Impact

On Friday 9 May, representatives from Durham Mathematics School joined colleagues from across the country at Governor Network Day in Birmingham. Organised by U-Maths, the day brought together governors, headteachers, and education leaders to explore how maths schools can collectively amplify their impact in an increasingly challenging educational landscape. Key sessions covered:

• Strategic outreach and how governors can guide schools to serve wider communities effectively

• Engagement with policymakers, particularly around demonstrating the unique value of maths schools

• Partnership development and fundraising strategies to secure future opportunities

• Gender equity and SEND provision—ensuring all students thrive within our schools
  

The keynote from Professor Lee Elliot-Major, Professor of Social Mobility at the University of Exeter, underscored the sector’s wider responsibility: not only to nurture future mathematicians, but to drive genuine social mobility through education.

A Network with Purpose

The strength of the U-Maths network lies in its collaborative spirit. As articulated in recent sector impact papers, the network is positioning itself as a national voice for mathematics excellence and inclusion. Whether through sustained outreach, CPD for teachers of high-attaining students, or innovative competitions and thought leadership, U-Maths is leading the charge in reshaping the maths education ecosystem.

At Durham Mathematics School, we believe that working collaboratively across the U-Maths network allows us to learn from and contribute to best practice nationally—building not just better outcomes for our students, but a stronger system for all.

We look forward to continuing this important work with our partners across the country and to strengthening our impact in our region.

Ellen Beveridge, CEO Providence Learning Partnership