On Monday 4 March, the Mathematics Department hosted its second ‘Cafe Maths’ event, providing a platform for students to showcase their passion for various mathematical concepts. The event was a resounding success, attracting a diverse audience and speakers ranging from Upper IV to Lower VI students.

The presentations included a captivating historical perspective from Grace in Lower V, who delved into the contributions of the 3rd century CE mathematician, Diophantus. Grace’s insights highlighted Diophantus’ ground-breaking work in algebraic notation which laid the foundation for the development of modern algebra.

Another standout presentation came from the duo Jasmin and Mehr, both in Upper V, who explored the probability involved in the infamous “Birthday Problem.” Through the engaging delivery and clear explanations, they demonstrated the surprisingly high probability of finding two people in a reasonably sized group who share the same birthday. Each presenter showcased their unique perspective and enthusiasm, sparking thought-provoking discussions.

The success of Cafe Maths was a testament to the students’ dedication and the Mathematics Department’s commitment to fostering a love for the subject.

Mrs Fitzsimmons, Head of Mathematics, expressed her delight at the event’s success, stating, “Cafe Maths embodies our department’s ethos of making mathematics accessible, engaging, and relevant to our students’ lives. We are thrilled to witness the enthusiasm and creativity displayed by our young mathematicians, and we look forward to the next instalment in June.”