Maths in Action Trip 2025 – BMS

Maths in Action: Seeing Maths Beyond the Classroom

Beal Maths School students recently attended Maths in Action, an A-level enrichment day at the Emmanuel Centre, bringing mathematics to life through talks from leading academics and professional mathematicians.

Across the day, students discovered how the mathematics they study extends far beyond the classroom, from modelling climate change in the polar regions to managing crowd flow at major events. The event showcased both the creativity and real-world impact of mathematics, opening students’ eyes to the wide range of directions their studies can take them.

Student Reflection – by Mahdi Rahman

As part of Beal Maths School, I had the opportunity to attend Maths in Action at the Emmanuel Centre. The event was both engaging and inspiring, demonstrating how mathematics plays a crucial role well beyond the classroom.

A range of speakers showcased the real-world impact of mathematics. Dr Sammie Buzzard highlighted how mathematical modelling is used in polar research to help address global challenges such as climate change. Professor Aoife Hunt explored the mathematics of crowd flow, offering insight into everyday applications, including the efficient use of escalators in busy public spaces.

One of the highlights of the day was hearing Dr Tom Crawford speak in person. His highly engaging talk illustrated how fundamental mathematical ideas can be applied in creative and unexpected ways, drawing on familiar concepts from video games to bring mathematics to life.

Overall, the experience reinforced the relevance of mathematics in the modern world and helped develop my problem-solving skills, creativity, and appreciation of how mathematics influences real-world decision-making.

Trip party leader Mr. Singh and Mr. Hickingbotham said, “We are extremely proud of the exemplary conduct of our students throughout the day, and both staff and students thoroughly enjoyed the trip. It was fantastic to see mathematics brought to life at Maths in Action, and our students clearly found an answer to that all-important question: “Where will I ever use this maths?”