Mathematical sciences outreach

Find out about the work we do with schools
Mathematical sciences outreach

We have a lively programme of outreach activities working with schools and teachers including a range of talks for schools and events. 

Outreach Activities for Schools 2022 – 2023

Mathematical Sciences run a number of events during the year for school years 5 through to 12 as well as events for the public. 
The dates for some of the events for 2022 – 23 have been set and you can find the details and application forms below.
Dates for other events will be published as soon as they are set and the information sent out to schools.
All schools within travelling distance of Plymouth are invited, via email, to attend the events. If your school does not receive information about the events and would like to be added to the mailing list please contact Dr Jenny Sharp.

Festival of Physics – Saturday 22nd October – University of Plymouth

Enjoy a one-day spectacular of free physics-themed talks, shows and demonstrations for everyone with an interest in physics.

Full details and the application form can be found on Eventbrite

Year 10 Mathematics Taster Days – January 2023 – "What study A level Mathematics?"

We are running two Year 10 Mathematics Taster Days on Tuesday 17th January and Thursday 26th January 2023

The day, which is being run in conjunction with the Advanced Maths Support Programme, will consist of a number of hands-on interactive workshops on a variety of mathematical topics. There are a number of workshops covering all aspects of mathematics including applications to engineering, statistics as well as topics such as cryptography and geometry.

The aim of the day is to provide your Year 10 students with a taste of mathematics at University with the hope that it will encourage them to consider mathematics post 16 or hopefully post 18. The workshops are designed to be accessible to your top sets and will be challenging as well as enjoyable!

More details and application form for the Year 10 Taster Days

Year 9 Masterclasses, Spring 2023

This will be the 25th series of Year 9 Masterclasses at Plymouth which are part of a nationwide programme in association with the Royal Institution. It is a series of 6 Saturday mornings, each exploring a topic which is not covered in the school’s curriculum and are designed to stretch the students’ ability.

Applications should be made from schools, rather than individuals.

More details and application form for the Year 9 Masterclasses

Year 12 Taster Day - "What can I do with my A level Mathematics?" 4th and 12th July 2023

We are running two Year 12 University Taster Days on Tuesday 4th July and Wednesday 12th July.

The day will consist of a number of hands-on interactive workshops on a variety of topics. There are a number of workshops covering all aspects of mathematics including pure mathematics, statistics, physics and applications of mathematics to the different areas of engineering and computing. The aim of the day is to provide your Year 12 students with a taste of what is on offer at University to those with an A level in mathematics.

More details and application form for the Year 12 Taster Days

Talks for schools

We offer a wide range of talks on mathematics, statistics and theoretical physics. These talks can be delivered online or, when appropriate, in person either at your school or as an inward visit to the University. An example of an online can be seen below.
Two popular talks are:
“Money, Magic, Maps and Mistakes – What’s so good about A level Mathematics?” which is a light hearted interactive session providing your Year 10 and 11 students with a lot of reasons why they should consider taking A level Mathematics. This is delivered by Dr Jenny Sharp.
“Why study Mathematics at University?” will give your year 12 and 13’s an insight to mathematics at University as well as looking at some of the many careers that this pathway can lead to. A number of staff within Mathematical Science are able to deliver this talk, please contact Dr Jenny Sharp in the first instance.

Resources for schools

  • Posters and leaflets
    We also have various posters and leaflets for schools. One of our most popular is the formulae required for A level Mathematics. This is available in A1 poster size (for your mathematics classrooms) or a handy A5 leaflet designed for your A level students. If you would like any posters and leaflets, please contact Dr Jenny Sharp.

  • Podcasts
    Staff and undergraduates have made a number of podcasts on mathematical topics which you may find useful in your teaching or as revision aids. You can find them on our YouTube page Mathematics with Plymouth University.

Get in touch

 To request resources, talks for schools, details about an event or to find out more about what we offer, please contact Dr Jenny Sharp.