Norfolk Maths Symposium
Over 250 school children from schools across the region gathered at The Space in Norwich for the Norfolk Maths Symposium. From learning about mathematics contribution to Climate Change research to the hidden mathematics behind juggling, pupils were inspired by the wide-ranging futures that mathematics holds.
Norwich School organised this free event and it was open to year 10/11 and sixth form pupils with the aim of inspiring, educating and broadening the horizons of GCSE and A Level mathematicians in Norfolk. Norwich School pupils were joined by students from schools including Benjamin Britain Academy, Wymondham High School, Thorpe St Andrew, Sir Isaac Newton Sixth Form, Dereham Sixth Form, Attleborough Academy, Northgate High School and Ormiston Victory Academy.
Pupils were treated to lectures on Applied Mathematics from Professor Chris Budd from the Department of Applied Mathematics from the University of Bath; Sophie Maclean, mathematician and experienced maths communicator currently studying for a PhD in Mathematics, at Kings College London (KCL); and mathematician Dr Colin Wright, ‘the Mathematical Juggler’.
The Norfolk Maths Symposium has welcomed over 2000 pupils over the five events since it was established.
Aims
The Masterclasses aim to open the eyes of young people to the excitement, beauty and value of mathematics, engineering and computer science and in turn, inspire the next generation.
Background
This is an annual event organised by Norwich School's Maths Department, and is offered to pupils at local secondary schools. The project was coordinated through the Assistant Head of Outreach and Admissions, a former local coordinator for Ri masterclasses.
Resources
Norwich School were organisers and hosts of the event, and also covered the costs of hiring the Open event venue in Norwich to enable the event to be offered to attendees free of charge.
Impact
Norwich School’s Head of Mathematics, says: "This is the fifth sitting of the Norfolk Maths Symposium for pupils ages 16 through 18 and we hope that this fantastic event will help spread the word that maths is more than just equations!”
Some thoughts from those in attendance:
“It was very informative and engaging with speakers with good topical knowledge. I would love to see another similar event in future.” - Pupil
“There was a broad range of talks at just the right level to stretch the students. It is such a great opportunity for Norfolk pupils!” - Teacher
Pupil Involvement
Approximately 500 pupils attend the symposium each year, and the event gives Norfolk's young mathematicians the opportunity to hear from maths experts in a morning of engaging talks and workshops.
