University maths schools in England are having a significant impact on student achievement and access to STEM fields, according to a new report by the Observatory for Mathematical Education (OME). The analysis found that these specialist sixth forms not only improve academic results but also increase participation in mathematics and related subjects among groups who have been under-represented.
Cambridge Maths School, which opened in September 2023 through a partnership between the Eastern Learning Alliance (ELA) and the University of Cambridge, recently celebrated its first A-level results. Over half of the grades awarded were at A* level.
The OME report reviewed the progress of maths schools across England ten years after their introduction. It found that female students, those from under-represented ethnic backgrounds, and students from low socio-economic groups progressed to mathematically intensive STEM degrees at higher rates than similar students elsewhere. These students were also more likely to achieve top grades in A-level mathematics and further mathematics and to gain places at highly selective STEM universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.
Maths schools were established in 2014 with the goal of preparing talented mathematics students for university study and addressing skills shortages in STEM fields. There are currently nine open maths schools with two more planned—one linked to Durham University and another to the University of Nottingham—pending government approval. If approved, every region in England will have at least one maths school.
Clare Hargraves, Headteacher at Cambridge Maths School, said: "At Cambridge Maths School, we see every day how transformative a deep mathematical education can be. This report confirms what we witness in our classrooms: that with the right support, young people from all backgrounds can thrive, excel, and shape the future through mathematics."
Rajen Shah, Professor of Statistics at the University of Cambridge and governor at Cambridge Maths School, stated: "A mathematical education can really flourish when curiosity and collaboration are at the heart of learning. The Cambridge Maths School offers exactly that environment, and the exceptional outcomes achieved by its students show what is possible when talent is nurtured in this way. The University of Cambridge is delighted to continue supporting the school in its mission to help young people from all backgrounds develop a lasting passion and confidence in mathematics."
Lucy Scott, CEO of Eastern Learning Alliance, commented: "We are delighted to see such strong evidence that University Maths Schools are delivering on their shared promise: opening up access to mathematics at the highest level for all young people, regardless of their background. It’s particularly encouraging to see the impact for groups traditionally under-represented in the subject. This is what the Cambridge Maths School was created to do, and I’d like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our staff who work tirelessly every day to ensure that vision becomes a reality."
Dan Abramson, CEO of the University Maths Schools Network, added: "University Maths Schools give students with a spark for maths the chance to thrive, whatever their background. Ten years on from their establishment, this study proves that the schools are fulfilling their mission to be engines of social mobility and nurture a new generation of mathematical scientists."