Across two events, over 350 students from The Two Counties Trust family of schools came together for the TTCT Elevating Maths Conference, hosted at the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus. Students attended sessions designed to deepen mathematical understanding in preparation for exams, as well as raise their own aspirations and highlight further opportunities available after secondary school.
Students engaged in several high value workshops focusing on topics such as numbers, algebra, data & probability, trigonometry, and calculators/revision. These topics were chosen because they will assist with exam preparation and further study. These sessions were designed by teachers from across the Trust to ensure students encountered the most knowledge rich elements of the GCSE curriculum, knowledge that empowers them to make meaningful choices about their next steps.
Sessions incorporated hands-on activities which encouraged students to fully engage with the content, with prizes rewarded for correct answers. The groups were made up of students from across all the Trust’s schools, aiding students to forge new relationships and increase their social confidence.
By dealing with complex mathematical problems in a supportive environment, students not only developed exam readiness, but also critical thinking, problem solving and confidence skills, qualities which will support them in later life.
Milena, a year 11 from Ashfield School, reflected on the day:
‘Maths is important because it helps us to understand problems and make informed decisions. Today has taught me to look into problems that are hard to solve, but there are always solutions for it. Most importantly, we should never give up and have a go at everything, even if your answer is wrong.’
Across two events, over 350 students from The Two Counties Trust family of schools came together for the TTCT Elevating Maths Conference, hosted at the University of Nottingham’s Jubilee Campus. Students attended sessions designed to deepen mathematical understanding in preparation for exams, as well as raise their own aspirations and highlight further opportunities available after secondary school.
Students engaged in several high value workshops focusing on topics such as numbers, algebra, data & probability, trigonometry, and calculators/revision. These topics were chosen because they will assist with exam preparation and further study. These sessions were designed by teachers from across the Trust to ensure students encountered the most knowledge rich elements of the GCSE curriculum, knowledge that empowers them to make meaningful choices about their next steps.
Sessions incorporated hands-on activities which encouraged students to fully engage with the content, with prizes rewarded for correct answers. The groups were made up of students from across all the Trust’s schools, aiding students to forge new relationships and increase their social confidence.
By dealing with complex mathematical problems in a supportive environment, students not only developed exam readiness, but also critical thinking, problem solving and confidence skills, qualities which will support them in later life.
Milena, a year 11 from Ashfield School, reflected on the day:
‘Maths is important because it helps us to understand problems and make informed decisions. Today has taught me to look into problems that are hard to solve, but there are always solutions for it. Most importantly, we should never give up and have a go at everything, even if your answer is wrong.’
The event also embodied the Trust’s belief in putting people first through professional learning and coaching. Teachers from all schools collaborated to deliver the sessions, modelling the same growth mindset and collaborative spirit they hope to instil in students. Their shared expertise created a consistent, high-quality learning experience that helped students feel supported and understood.
Mr Astill, Teacher of Mathematics at Heritage High School, commented:
‘The Elevating Maths conference was a fantastic day, and I was really proud of how our Year 11 students approached each workshop. Teaching the data and probability sessions, I saw real effort, resilience and teamwork. It was great to see students from across the Trust engaging so positively as they prepare for their exams.’
At the end of the conferences, staff celebrated students who showed exceptional commitment to or embodied the Trust’s values of Ambition, Teamwork and Honesty. Every teacher leading the sessions, and each group leader chose one ‘star student’ to be awarded a certificate and prize, celebrating their hard work and dedication throughout the day.
Mrs. Dawson, Senior Trust Lead for Maths and event organiser, summarised the day:
‘Organising the Elevating Maths conferences was a real team effort, and it was wonderful to see all that planning coming together so successfully. All students approached the day with enthusiasm, maturity and exemplary behaviour, which made the events a pleasure to run and a credit to their schools. The maths focused workshops gave students valuable strategies and confidence as they prepare for their exams, and the way they all engaged and represented the Trust was fantastic. It was a very rewarding experience for everyone involved.’
Crucially, the conferences also offered students from across the Trust a valuable insight into life at university. Students stepped beyond their familiar classrooms and into spaces that represent future ambitions and possibilities. The campus setting encouraged them to picture themselves as future university students, helping to raise aspirations whilst they took part in the engaging workshops.
The Elevating Maths Conference was more than a revision opportunity, helping students see how Maths can shape their futures. By combining knowledge with encouragement and exposure to new environments, the event strengthened students belief in their own potential. It demonstrated the Two Counties Trust’s commitment to ensuring every young person is equipped with the skills, confidence and ambition to make informed choices about the paths they wish to pursue.