Maths skills challenged in friendly competition

Pictured is: (l-r) Izzy Doyle, Grace Dixon, Caitlin Bitri and Hatty Robbins from Meon Junior School at the Maths Challenge.

Picture: Sarah Standing (160517-7487) PPP-160317-083042001 — Pictured is: (l-r) Izzy Doyle, Grace Dixon, Caitlin Bitri and Hatty Robbins from Meon Junior School at the Maths Challenge. Picture: Sarah Standing (160517-7487) PPP-160317-083042001

The girls from Years 5 and 6 were faced with some stretching mathematics challenges covering numeracy and shape and space activities, including group rounds and relay rounds where basic algebra was required.

Portsmouth High School’s head of mathematics, Paul Goldbrum, said: ‘It is particularly important for girls to apply their problem-solving and mathematical skills in  a fun and friendly competition.

‘This gives them the self-confidence and opportunities to prove they can problem-solve and encourages the girls to consider careers involving subjects such as engineering, in the future.’

‘I didn’t really like maths before,’ said Caitlin Bitri, from Meon Junior School. ‘A day like today has really boosted my confidence and I like maths much more now.’

The winning team was Meon Junior School which was presented with certificates by headmistress, Jane Prescott.

The day finished with a mathematics road show with a selection of puzzles involving shape, space and logic questions.

Schools taking part were: Alverstoke Church of England Junior School, Fernhurst Junior School, Hook-with-Warsash C of E Academy, Langstone Junior School, Mengham Junior School, Meon Junior School, Mill Rythe Junior School, Northern Parade, Portsmouth High Junior School, St Alban’s Primary School and Wimborne Junior School.