MathsWorld
The Grammar School at Leeds (GSAL) has organised Maths Challenge Days for Year 5 pupils from partner schools since 2013. These events invite teams of enthusiastic young mathematicians to GSAL for a morning of engaging, competitive and enriching mathematical activities. The initiative aims to inspire deeper enjoyment of mathematics while offering pupils the experience of taking part in a challenge beyond their normal classroom setting.
This year, GSAL strengthened the event through its close relationship with MathsWorld, the charity behind Leeds’ mathematics discovery centre MathsCity. A member of GSAL’s SLT is a trustee and long-standing supporter of MathsWorld which plays an active role in promoting mathematical confidence across the region. Working with MathsWorld, GSAL provided prizes for the winning team, including a fully funded Year 5 visit to MathsCity and the transport required. This supports GSAL’s wider commitment to establishing Leeds as a 'City of Maths' by helping local pupils access high-quality mathematical experiences.
Aims
The event aims to encourage a passion for mathematics among Year 5 pupils from partner primary schools and to promote MathsWorld and MathsCity as accessible and inspiring resources for young learners in Leeds.
To maximise participation, GSAL provided a range of accessible, engaging activities developed by its maths faculty; a large venue capable of hosting 20 teams; and in-house transport to enable schools without travel options to attend. All pupils received personalised certificates, and the winning team earned a fully funded trip to MathsCity for their whole year group.
Background
The GSAL Maths Challenge ran annually for many years before the pandemic and was reinstated in 2023. It continues to reflect GSAL’s active involvement in the mathematical life of Leeds, complementing the school’s wider work with MathsWorld and MathsCity.
Resources
The event requires GSAL maths teachers to design and deliver the activities; GSAL sixth form students to support teams and assist with marking; and partner school teachers to accompany their pupils.
Impact
20 teams most recently took part, involving 80 pupils and 20 teachers. Teachers reported that pupils thoroughly enjoyed the event and valued the level of challenge provided. They appreciated receiving scores for classroom follow-up and noted that the event stretched keen mathematicians in ways not always possible in everyday lessons.
Pupil Involvement
GSAL sixth form students play an important leadership role, supporting teams, encouraging younger pupils and helping to mark activities.
Frequency
The GSAL Maths Challenge Day is an annual event and forms a key part of GSAL’s contribution to mathematical enrichment across Leeds, supporting the wider ambition for Leeds to continue growing as a 'City of Maths'.