Students studying A Level Further Mathematics recently visited the University of Leeds’s STEM Day Event, designed to challenge and inspire some of the city’s top mathematicians.

The aim was to learn more about the exciting opportunities available to those who pursue a degree in the subject, giving a deeper understanding of what it’s like to study Mathematics at university and provide insight into the different degree options available to them.

During the visit, Year 12 students enjoyed a guided campus tour by current undergraduate students, alongside an insightful talk exploring what it’s like to study Mathematics at Leeds. They found out about the different degree options available for Maths students at the University of Leeds and attended a lecture from Professor Julia Gog OBE on the mathematics behind optimising pandemic response.

The students also had the opportunity to attend a hands-on maths session, where they interacted with several stalls and talked to professionals about different aspects of mathematics, engineering, and physics.

“The best part of the day was the hour we had in the room with many interactive problems to solve, it was very fun and practical,” said student, Joe Hirst.

Another student, Kelsey Walker said: “My favourite part of the day was the disease vs mathematics talk – it was really interesting to see how maths overlaps with medicine, economics and ethics.”

Mrs Denville, Further Mathematics teacher said: “I really enjoyed the trip as a member of staff. It was fantastic to see our students really get involved in the activities on the day and show off what brilliant mathematicians they are all becoming – they really did us proud! Several of them have since mentioned that it made them see the university as a solid choice, and I know a few have been inspired and are now considering pursuing further study in Mathematics at university, which is wonderful to hear”

The STEM Day provided a valuable opportunity for students to deepen their appreciation of Mathematics and to envision the wide range of future pathways available to them in STEM-related fields.