Wellington School Maths Challenge

12 Jan 2018

Pencils and brains were sharpened on Saturday as the Wellington School Maths Challenge once again attracted huge numbers of children. Over 160 students from 41 primary schools took part in the Challenge and enjoyed the competitive spirit. The winner in this hotly contested competition was Blackbrook Primary School, whose team of 4 beat off all other contenders for the prize.

Now in its twenty second year, this annual event is aimed at children aged 10 or 11 from schools across Devon and Somerset. Schools are invited to enter a team of four pupils who work together to solve 25 questions in one hour. Their problem solving skills are put to the test with a range of tasks which are based on principles from across mathematics.

“We were delighted to see so many enthusiastic and talented mathematicians working together and pitting their wits against each other. This event has grown over the 22 years we have been running it and it is always good to see new schools joining in”, commented Peter Buckingham, Head of Maths at Wellington School. “These young mathematicians have impressed us all with their enthusiasm. They have successfully solved problems by working together and sharing their methods”.

The winners took home books, puzzles and the satisfaction of having risen to the challenge.

Second place was home team Wellington Prep School and in third place was Tatworth Primary School.

Special prizes for the first estimating task went to Combe St Nicholas Primary School, Wellington Prep School and North Petherton Primary School.

Photo: Winners Blackbrook Primary School with Headmaster Henry Price and Head of Maths, Peter Buckingham