Café Maths is always a highlight for the Maths department every term and this time proved to be another great success. A large classroom was filled with curious minds as students from Lower IV and Lower VI delivered engaging presentations on a wide array of topics. By coincidence there was a strong theme of infinity between the presentations, from the infinite hotel paradox to Arrow’s impossibility theorem. Each speaker presented with confidence and enthusiasm, bringing their subject matter to life and sparking thought-provoking discussions among the audience and even some crowd participation involving coloured hats!

Building on the success of last term’s Intermediate Maths Challenge, eight students were invited to sit the Pink and Grey Kangaroo follow-on papers. Their outstanding performances resulted in four Silver and two Bronze certificates – a remarkable achievement given the high level of difficulty. These results are a testament to the dedication and mathematical aptitude of students in Upper IV, Lower V and Upper V.
Most recently, the Junior Maths Challenge took place, with students from four groups in Upper III and Lower IV. For many, this was their first experience of a UKMT challenge, offering a stimulating introduction to the kind of problem solving, logical thinking and applied mathematics that make the subject so enjoyable. From this, they achieved 20 Bronze, 17 Silver and 11 Gold which is an outstanding achievement. So much so, that the top six scorers qualified for the Junior Kangaroo round. They achieved 2 Bronze and 3 Silver and will receive their certificates and recognition in the final assembly next week. Congratulations to all who took part.

Maths in the City took place for the second time following last year’s success. Lower IV explored Reading town centre solving cryptic puzzles in a thoroughly enjoyable race against time! From visiting Reading museum to the historic Abbey ruins, students discovered new found places of interest and returned to school in time for the speech day celebrations and food festival.