SPECIALIST MATHEMATICIANS

Overview

Our Specialist Mathematics Scheme is designed for gifted mathematicians who want to be challenged. Pupils with an enthusiasm and passion for mathematics will enjoy being stretched through this scheme, which will ultimately enable them to fulfil their mathematical potential whilst experiencing a rounded education.

Talented mathematicians are encouraged to apply for a Mathematics Scholarship and join our established specialists, for entry at Years 7, 9, 10 or Lower Sixth. We may be able to provide means-tested financial assistance for you to join this scheme.

Benefits

As a specialist mathematician, you will be able to:

• work with peers of similar ability
• study a course that is appropriate and stimulating
• follow a regular school curriculum and integrate socially with your peers in the normal way, whilst following an enrichment and extension course in mathematics
• be trained and inspired by experienced mathematician mentors
• have weekly problem-solving sessions with a visiting professor of Maths (Year 10+)
• be encouraged to remain within the field of mathematics and mathematics rich fields on graduation
• fulfil your mathematical potential whilst experiencing a rounded curriculum.

Testimonials

In our 2023 IS Inspection Report, it states:

“Senior school pupils make excellent progress, especially those who are part of the specialist accelerated mathematics group. These pupils successfully study topics well beyond those expected for their age.”

The Director of General Qualification Development at AQA says,

“The AQA, the country’s largest awarding body, is delighted to support this scheme in the UK which seeks to provide for the needs of really talented young mathematicians and is looking forward to its involvement in master class delivery, prize donation and curriculum development.”

Professor Valerie Isham, President of the Royal Statistical Society adds,

“Stimulating the interest of school students in mathematics and statistics, and awakening them not only to the importance but also to the fascination of these subjects is essential for our future society. In particular, the shortage of young people entering the statistical profession is a major concern at present. It is especially welcome that, through the opportunities for bursaries, the scheme is open to all gifted young people. It is also likely that a scheme such as this will have a beneficial effect on pupils throughout the school whose standards and expectations will be raised.”

A leading employer says,

“As an employer, I see growing competition between businesses to attract high calibre, mathematically orientated graduates. The Wells scheme addresses a need to produce potential recruits with a balance of outstanding academic achievement and complementary social skills whose talents companies can nurture to develop future leaders in the fields of commerce and industry.”

Mathematics Scholarships

Our Mathematics Scholarships are awarded to pupils with truly exceptional mathematical ability and potential looking to join us in Years 7, 9, 10 and Lower Sixth. We also welcome applications from our current pupils who are progressing into Years 7, 9 and Lower Sixth. For more information, please see our Mathematics Scholarships page.

Be a Specialist Mathematician for a Day

Our Be a Specialist for a Mathematician Day events (open to pupils currently in Years 5 and 6) offer a taste of life as a specialist mathematician where participants enjoy a variety of activities similar to what they would experience as part of the Specialist Mathematics scheme here at Wells. We would then make a recommendation about next steps based on whether we feel that you would be suitable for this enrichment programme. 

Please register at least a week in advance if you wish to attend by using the form below, but please note that numbers are limited so you may wish to book early to avoid disappointment.

I went to BAMFAD with my friends to see what it would be like if I were to become a Specialist Mathematician in Year 7. I think it’s a great way to learn challenging (but very fun) maths, as well as a chance to meet new people who also love maths as much as you do. It was a brilliant experience and it just makes me even more determined to become a Specialist Mathematician.

– Previous participant

Please note that pupils wishing to apply for a Mathematics Scholarships for another year of entry should click here for application details.