Over 120 children took part in two events that were organised by the University of Essex team, as part of our Essex Year of Numbers initiative.
An on-site university day began with a tour of the Colchester campus, where Year 5 pupils from Lawford School in Manningtree took part in fun problem-solving activities. The university team were on hand to explain exactly how much the team use maths in their everyday roles. From understanding climate change data to exploring brain development at the University of Essex's Babylab, students even worked with a psychologist to analyse their own brainwaves!
Students from Purford Green Primary School, Pear Tree Mead Primary Academy, Potter Street Academy and The Downs Primary School and Nursery, who were unable to travel to the Colchester campus, visited Passmores Academy in Harlow earlier in the month. They received a visit from the University of Essex team, who recreated the full university experience for them off-site.
Mr Vic Goddard, CEO of PCLC Trust in Harlow, ran a session about the importance of numbers in games during the separate school visit. He said: “Our aim is to show that mathematics is not only essential but an incredibly exciting and engaging subject for all to enjoy. It was fantastic to welcome the University of Essex team into our classrooms this month. There is no doubt that interactive events like these play a crucial role in inspiring the next generation of mathematicians and problem solvers.”
Roy Blatchford, Chair of the Essex Education Task Force, said: “Our Essex Year of Numbers goal is to ignite a passion for maths in children at an early age. We hope to demonstrate that numbers really are all around us and can be both exciting and rewarding.”
The Essex Year of Numbers is a countywide campaign that aims to inspire a love of maths and numbers from a young age. The programme also provides support for parents, teachers, and caregivers. Find out more about the initiative here on the Essex Year of Numbers website.