Priory pupils have once again demonstrated their mathematical talents by achieving outstanding success at the Lancaster University School of Mathematics (LUSoM) Challenge.
On Tuesday 30 June, Priory’s Year 7 and 8 team travelled to the LUSoM to compete in the Key Stage 3 competition against 20 schools from across Lancashire. Emma L, Alfie M, Zach B and Adam H tackled three rounds of challenging mathematical problems and emerged as overall winners, securing first place.
The victory marks an impressive achievement for the school, which also won the Key Stage 3 LUSoM Challenge last year. It means Priory has successfully retained the title and become back-to-back champions.
Particularly noteworthy is the achievement of Year 8 pupils Adam and Zach, who were members of both winning teams. Having helped secure victory as Year 7 pupils last year, they have now repeated the feat a year later.
Later in the week, Priory’s Key Stage 4 team represented the school in the senior competition at the Preston campus. Kayden C, Dexter J and Oliver C competed against 20 schools from across the county, taking part in four demanding rounds of problem solving challenges.
Despite competing with one fewer team member than their rivals, the Priory team produced a superb performance and remained ahead of eventual winners Broughton High School after the first three rounds. A strong final round from Broughton saw them overturn the deficit and claim the title, with Priory finishing agonisingly close to bringing home a second trophy.
While the Key Stage 4 team narrowly missed out on victory, their resilience, determination and mathematical skill made them worthy representatives of the school and capped off an excellent week of competitive maths for Priory.
Maths teacher, Mr Hunter, said, “I am incredibly proud of all the pupils who represented Priory at this year’s LUSoM Challenge. To win the Key Stage 3 competition for a second consecutive year is a fantastic achievement, particularly given the high standard of schools involved. Adam and Zach have now been part of two winning teams in as many years, which is especially impressive.
“Our Key Stage 4 team also performed brilliantly and, despite competing with one fewer team member, were in contention for the title right until the final round. Their dedication, teamwork and problem-solving skills were outstanding throughout.”
