School outreach - Inspiring the next generation of mathematicians

We are passionate about inspiring young people to discover the joy and power of mathematics. Through workshops, festivals, partnerships, and innovative educational programmes, we work directly with schools across the region to make mathematics engaging, accessible, and exciting for pupils and teachers alike.

Here are some of the school outreach activities and programmes we've been involved in recent years:

School Science Festival

We welcome hundreds of school students each year in Spring as part of Durham University School Science Festival. Through hands-on mathematical workshops and interactive demonstrations, we give students the opportunity to experience university-level mathematics in an accessible and fun environment, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for the subject.

MathCircles

We are proud partners of WeSolveProblems, a charity dedicated to developing mathematical thinking in young people. Through their MathCircles and MathBattles taking place on our campus, secondary school students interested in pushing their mathematical boundaries come together to tackle challenging problems, explore extracurricular material, and develop their problem-solving skills in a supportive and collaborative environment.

“Maths into Schools”

Our third-year undergraduate module, "Maths into Schools," trains the next generation of mathematical ambassadors. Students on this module develop and deliver engaging mathematical activities in local schools, sharing their passion for the subject while gaining valuable teaching and communication experience. This programme creates a win-win situation: schoolchildren encounter fun and inspiring mathematical concepts, while our undergraduates develop crucial outreach and engagement skills.

School visits and STEM festivals

We regularly visit schools across the North East, bringing engaging mathematical activities directly to pupils and teachers. At STEM festivals, special vocational days and other outreach events we run dedicated workshops that challenge students to think creatively, solve problems, and see mathematics in new ways. These visits allow us to reach diverse communities and inspire people who might not otherwise have access to enrichment opportunities.

Looking Ahead

We are committed to expanding our school outreach activities and building lasting partnerships with educational institutions across the region.