The maths circle at St Cenydd Community School in Caerphilly is a hub for aspiring and curious problem solvers. One pupil announced, “This just feels like home!”
The dedicated mentor, Mrs Ricketts, has created a space which is both challenging and supportive. Each session is a unique opportunity to see how maths can fit into many roles and future pathways.
“When I’m older, I want to be an engineer, and Miss has shown us maths in different jobs. In the summer term, we’re going to this engineering company, and I’m looking forward to it.”
Another pupil shared: “I want to be an accountant when I’m older, and maths circles have motivated me to do maths at university.”
The circle has a distinct vibe from their usual lessons.
“They’re more challenging than our maths lessons,” one pupil explained, “and we learn different things, which means they’re not just an extra lesson.”
Resilient mindsets and good mathematical behaviours are always encouraged in their weekly gathering. ”I really like to use the academic vocabulary we practice in maths circles.” added another.
The “Mathematician of the Week” and attendance awards celebrate the wins. Progress, hard work, and commitment are cheered, and positive habits form.
One pupil recalled: “My favourite moment was the first maths circle. Even though I missed the getting to know each other meeting, it was still very fun, because it’s really different from my other lessons. And I was awarded mathematician of the week.”
Mrs Ricketts understood that the social side of maths circles matters, and so early on she organised a ‘get to know each other’ trip to the Bristol Aerospace Museum.
“The goal for me was to show them the world, show them where maths could take them…maths took us to the skies!” Her mission is clear: “I want pupils to know you belong here. You’re going places.”
The supportive side of the circle glows all around the classroom.
“The curriculum itself is phenomenal… so that allows me to focus a lot on the mentoring side.”
The impact of Mrs Ricketts’ work on her pupils is inspiring.
“They have all shone at different times and come out of their shells…One has become so much more positive… she’s now asking her maths teacher for GCSE past papers.
Another had a meeting with the governors…he just absolutely sparkled when talking about Axiom Maths.”
And spending time leading maths circles has started to influence her teaching too.
“Sometimes as teachers we get so hung up on evidencing pupil progress in that one hour lesson that we prompt and “fill the silence”. The silence screams progress in our axiom circles. The pupils are thinking hard, making choices, making mistakes and overcoming all sorts of problem solving battles. They are becoming better problem solvers and that is progress. This has definitely impacted my teaching.”
For those contemplating joining a maths circle, a pupil advised: “I would tell them not to be nervous when joining, because it’s a really relaxing experience, and if you take in what you learn, it’ll be worthwhile.”
Mrs Ricketts closed with supportive advice for those looking to help their pupils flourish:
“Advice to someone who wants to build that community spirit: get to know them, find out their likes, their dislikes, their interests, and foster them and show them where maths can take them by doing those little things.”