Pupils became masters in maths

Talented young mathematicians have been taking part in an educational event at Teesside University.

The Mathematics Masterclass Series were run in conjunction with the Royal Institution of Great Britain (Ri) over five consecutive Saturday mornings during the school Spring term at the University.

They were aimed at more able Year 8 (aged 12 to 13) secondary school pupils with a keen interest in mathematics to encourage them in the subject. The students were from schools across the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire.

Each week a themed masterclass was delivered by a guest speaker. Guests included Colin Wright, who used juggling to explain maths theory and practice and James Blowey, who used Rubik’s cubes to get the children thinking about numbers.

Other interactive sessions included Paper Magic with Liz Meehan, who asked the children to make shapes from paper and Steve Humble, who shared Hidden Secrets from the World of Dr Maths.

The Masterclass Series culminated with a Celebration of Achievement Event at the University, when successes achieved during the maths sessions were applauded.

Angela Wood, Schools and Colleges Recruitment Co-ordinator, said: 'The maths sessions provided a great opportunity for young people to develop their interest in maths, using topics such as magic, origami and juggling. The series ended with a celebration of achievement event where young people shared their success with family, friends and teachers.'

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