Thirty students from local colleges will get the chance to work on their Maths at the University next week (2 to 4 July 2013).
The residential Maths Summer School, run for the first time this year, is aimed at students studying a level 3 BTEC in Computer Science, Engineering or Sports Science. The students will be based on the Claverton campus, where they will have the opportunity to work with leading academics on projects to enhance their Maths skills in their own subject area.
The students will stay in campus accommodation and get the chance to learn about university life as well as experiencing the fantastic facilities on campus including the Sports Training Village. They will also spend time with current students who will guide and support them during the week and answer their questions about being at university.
Annette Hayton, Head of Widening Participation at the university, said: “We’re keen to support entry to Bath for college students taking vocational courses such as a BTEC. The summer school will provide additional maths to improve their grades and prepare them for university study.”
Andrew Ross, Widening Participation Outreach Officer, added: “This is a great opportunity for students from the local area to come to experience a university. They’ll get to see both the working and social sides of university life and hopefully they’ll make some new friends during their time here.”
Jane White, Director of the University of Bath Mathematics Resources Centre (MASH) and academic lead, said: “We’re really looking forward to working with these students on interdisciplinary problem solving projects. It’s a great opportunity to help them to develop and practice their mathematical skills and we hope to make it a very rewarding and educational experience for them.”
The Maths Summer School is part of the Widening Participation outreach strategy at the University. The students attending the Maths Summer School have been identified as excelling in their subject areas and have the ability to get into the local university or other selective universities. This summer school will help them to boost their confidence and raise their attainment in Maths. This is important because there is significant ‘curriculum mismatch’ in Maths between Level 3 BTEC and degree level study.
The Maths Summer School is just one of a number of initiatives that are offered to local schools and colleges which also includes a second summer school aimed at year 11 students, happening between 23 and 26 July.
This year’s Maths Summer School is fully subscribed but for more information about this or other widening participation activities please contact Andrew Ross on 01225 385418 or email Andrew here.