Levelling the playing field for bright young mathematicians

Imperial co-pilots a new programme aimed at creating equal opportunities for bright young mathematicians

The Maths Admission Test (MAT) is designed to enable all candidates to compete for places on equal terms. But are some students still more equal than others?

Along with A-levels, Imperial uses the MAT as the basis for undergraduate assessment, so it's an important part of the selection process.

The test is based solely on the Maths syllabus; not Further Maths, which some schools don't teach. In theory then, it should give every candidate an equal chance. But in reality, there are many other factors that govern a student's ambition and likelihood of applying to an outstanding university like Imperial or Oxford.

That's what the Problem Solving MATters programme sets out to address.

Enlightened philanthropy

This pilot programme was made possible by the generous support of Oxford alumnus, Dr Tony Hill, who has been working with our own Head of Department, Richard Craster, to make it a reality.

This programme gives young people from less advantaged backgrounds an opportunity to see what Imperial and Oxford are actually like says Tony. As well as being taught by experts and mentored by undergraduates, they have a chance to look around, see people like them from all over the country and to visualise themselves in such a place.

Tony grew up on a council estate and was the first from his family to go to university. He understands the issues and he's passionate about helping talented young people overcome common stumbling blocks:

Those from lower socio-economic backgrounds or whose families don't value education; those whose school isn't very good generally or at teaching Maths, or where they have the attitude of kids from round here don't go to that type of university... Compare that to a kid coming from a good school that's strong in maths and with a strong tradition of getting their students into good universities. In one sense it's equal and in another, it's not.

Breaking down barriers

The Problem Solving MATters programme is designed to prepare students from less advantaged backgrounds for achieving success in the MAT.

It comprises three face-to-face study days, focussing on specific problem-solving skills, with a short practice exam in the final session; three summer assignments to further develop thinking skills and technique; and five online follow-up sessions, designed to consolidate new skills in the run up to the MAT itself.

Crucially, participants are supported by student mentors who offer feedback throughout the process and to quote Tony, chat to them and nudge them along.

Tony's aim is that the programme will continue and be rolled out to other Russell Group Universities, so we can get the best people into maths departments not just the best-prepared.

A formidable partnership

Imperial has been very supportive in this endeavour, says Tony (pictured left); they gave us use of facilities, they found mentors to help with study days and to mark assignments; they have pushed us all along. It's been a real pleasure working with the people there.

If you're inspired by Tony's enthusiasm and have ideas of your own to improve student access or experience at Imperial, please contact Patrick Stewart, Head of Development for the Faculty of Natural Sciences on 020 7594 2667 or via email at patrick.stewart@imperial.ac.uk. We'd love to hear from you. Of course, you can also help by making a gift, which can be earmarked to student support if you wish. Simply visit our alumni giving pages to find out more.