Students from Exeter Mathematics School celebrate completion of unique course

The students and their families joined academics from the University’s College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences to celebrate the presentation of the Exeter Mathematics Certificate along with the exceptional A-level results received earlier in the day.

A total of 80 per cent of all A-level grades awarded to the students were A*, A and B, making Exeter Mathematics School one of the top performing state schools in the country.

Professor Tim Quine, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Education at the University of Exeter said: “We are extremely proud to support this programme as part of our commitment to widening access to higher education and supporting young people in our region to go on to compete for places in highly selective universities. We are excited to celebrate with you, our first graduating cohort.”

Exeter Mathematics School Headteacher Kerry Burham said: "The work students complete with the university is a crucial part of their preparation for future study. It's been fantastic to witness their development into confident, independent learners."

The Exeter Mathematics Certificate is a unique course designed to prepare students for university study. It involves group projects pitched at a similar level to assignments given to undergraduates. In carrying out their research, the students work closely with academics from the University of Exeter along with industrial companies such as The Met Office.

The students have also presented their findings by delivering a talk, producing a formal poster and a professional report. Topics so far have included the creation of a “statistically perfect” pop song, and an investigation into the mathematics of traffic flow.

James Cockayne, 18, who will study Aerospace Engineering said: “For a lot of the group work we worked closely with academics from the University of Exeter. It was inspiring to have leaders in the STEM field share their knowledge with us.”

Embla Hocking, 18, received three A* grades and has a place to study Mechanical Engineering. She said: “It has been really helpful to spend time at the University of Exeter throughout college. It was great for my personal statement and it’s been nice to see what’s on offer at universities.”

Sam Marriott, 18 intends to take a gap year before studying Engineering. He said: “Having lectures and access to the library at the University of Exeter was a really good experience. It was insightful seeing how things run at a university and I now know what to expect when I go.”

Professor Pete Vukusic from the University of Exeter said: “As the Associate Dean of Education for the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, it is a genuine privilege to be able to see these young students graduate from the Exeter Mathematics School so successfully.”

Professor Trevor Bailey, from the University of Exeter and a governor at the school said: “I would like to congratulate all Exeter Mathematics Students on their results. It has been a privilege to be a part of the beginning of this school’s journey, and I look forward to seeing further success in the future.”