In the next few days 30 students will begin studying at the University of Liverpool Mathematics School – the first of its kind in the north of England

The first specialist maths school in the north of England – the University of Liverpool Mathematics School (ULMaS) – opens its doors to its first cohort of students next week.

The school welcomes 30 students who will study an “innovative and challenging” A Level curriculum in maths, further maths, physics and computer science in a supportive environment where talented and passionate young mathematicians can thrive and excel.

The curriculum has been specifically devised to give students a deep and flexible understanding of mathematical sciences alongside courses in problem solving, research, communication and teamwork. It will equip students with the knowledge, skills and confidence to study mathematics-related disciplines at top universities, and pursue mathematically intensive careers.

Maths is a skills area which is one of the most highly in demands by employers and the Government is determined, through its Industrial Strategy, to raise the number of people studying it at A-Level.

Located in the Alastair Pilkington Building on the University of Liverpool campus, students at ULMaS will benefit from its close association with the university including masterclass sessions with lecturers, support from PhD and undergraduate students, research projects and careers guidance.

ULMaS is the first of its kind to open in the North of England and the third to open in the country, following in the footsteps of Exeter Mathematics School and King’s College Mathematics School. A number of other Maths Schools are currently in planning stages including Lancaster, Leeds and Durham.

Headteacher, Damian Haigh, said: “I’m so excited to realise our plans to create an exceptional school for the most able young mathematicians in the Liverpool city region.

“Through our extensive outreach programme, talented staff and the commitment of the University of Liverpool we are going to enable the children of Merseyside, from all backgrounds, to achieve global impact through careers in the mathematical sciences.

“Our first cohort of students contains students from Sefton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Halton and Wirral. They will benefit from a challenging curriculum with a great deal of close support from expert teachers and support staff.”

The school will deliver an outreach and engagement programme to raise aspiration and attainment levels across the region. Outreach activities began during lockdown with live online lessons delivered to more than 200 Year 11 students preparing for A-level study.