The Royal Institution coordinates a UK-wide network of mathematics masterclasses and related enrichment activities. There are around 60 secondary masterclass series and related events, stretching from Aberdeen to Cornwall, reaching over 3000 students annually.
View Ri Secondary Mathematics Masterclasses 09-10 in a larger map.
Our secondary masterclasses are designed to encourage, inspire and engage young people in the art and practice of mathematics. The highly interactive sessions introduce students to aspects or applications of maths which may not usually be covered in the school curriculum. Topics range from art to cryptography, not forgetting dinosaurs, mazes and paper folding!
Masterclass programmes are arranged in series of between five to ten classes, with one class running for about two and a half hours. However, we can also arrange one-off masterclasses and workshops for teachers.
Presenters are chosen for their ability to share their insight and enthusiasm for the subject. Students get the opportunity to explore the subject for themselves within each class, either individually or in small groups, with help being on hand if needed. Teachers are especially encouraged to participate in this part of the class. To read a summary of our recent evaluation by the CEM centre at Durham University click here.
If you wish to read the comprehensive report please email us on maths@ri.ac.uk.
To find out more about the History of the Masterclasses click here.
How the masterclasses are organised
The masterclasses are organised regionally, mainly by independent groups of local volunteers. Our network collectively runs about 60 series each year, all around the UK. Each group organises one or more series, usually for 12 to 14 year olds. Classes are typically held on Saturday mornings during term time.If you would like to find out more about masterclasses for primary age students, click here.
During the summer term, the Ri invites all of that year's participants to a special follow-up masterclass event.
Attending the masterclasses
Most groups invite students on the basis of teacher recommendation and are looking for not just an aptitude in mathematics, but also a keenness and determination to explore. Local organisers invite schools to nominate students for the masterclasses. This is the only way to attend the masterclasses - we are not able to accept nominations from students or parents.
How to volunteer for us or organise a masterclass
Local volunteers and schools are pivotal to masterclass series. A series requires not only a principal organiser but also mathematical and pastoral support for the children, and administrative and financial support to maintain it. If you would like to learn more about existing provision in your area and/or help organise a series, please get in touch with the Ri maths team on maths@ri.ac.uk or 020 7670 2915.
Help for organisers
The Ri is keen to develop the masterclass network further. The Ri can provide guidance and resources for organisers, including materials and presenters, and has a small fund for supporting new groups.
There is an annual meeting in June each year where local organisers have the opportunity to meet others and share ideas and experiences.
New developments
The Ri is piloting mathematics masterclasses for students aged 15 and above (in association with Imperial College and the University of Greenwich). WE have developed three new masterclasses in design and nine in engineering.
More information
For further information about anything on this page, including starting new series, arranging one-off masterclasses or interactive lecture-demonstrations (for learners or educators) or developing and delivering new masterclasses, please contact the mathematics team on 020 7670 2915 or maths@ri.ac.uk.