Maths STEP Prep Summer School
The Maths STEP Prep Summer School is a new initiative to help Year 12 (or equivalent) students who intend to apply to the University of Cambridge to study Maths, and are from UK state-maintained schools and colleges. The Summer School will provide early preparation and familiarisation of the Sixth Term Exam Paper in Mathematics (STEP). The four-day summer school, taking place from 23-26 July 2013 is for students who are between Year 12 and Year 13. The Summer School programme allows students to be taught by NRICH team members and assisted by current Maths students. The programme will be intensive and demanding. It will promote students' development of mathematical skills and understanding that are relevant to the nature of STEP questions, which are designed to test qualities like insight, originality, and the ability to use standard techniques in unusual ways and situations. There will also be social activities in the evening, to allow students to sample University student life. The costs of all accommodation, meals and travel are covered. The Summer School will also be followed by an online programme.
Eligibility
Current Year 12 (or equivalent) students from UK state-maintained schools and colleges who intend to apply to the University of Cambridge in October 2013 to study Mathematics are invited to apply to the Maths STEP Prep Summer School. There are forty places available. We particularly encourage applications from students who meet some or all of the following criteria:
- will be the first generation in their family to attend university
- attend schools or colleges with a low overall progression rates to Cambridge
- come from neighbourhoods with low overall progression rates to higher education
- are (or have been) looked after, accommodated or in care
In addition to widening participation criteria, applicants will be assessed on evidence of outstanding academic potential, a reference from their Maths teacher and their own statement of interest. If an applicant's accompanying teacher reference is not submitted by the deadline then they will not be considered.
Application Process
Students must complete an online application form by 4pm on 15 March, and their Maths teacher must also complete an online reference form by 4pm on 22 March 2013. Applicants are able to apply for both the Maths STEP Prep Summer School and Sutton Trust Summer School in Mathematics if they wish to, as both initiatives are for Year 12 students from state-maintained schools, however applicants will only be selected for one initiative. You will be informed of the outcome of your application by email.
***Applications for the 2013 Summer School are now closed***
Venues
The course programme will be delivered at the Centre for Mathematical Sciences, University of Cambridge. The accommodation will be provided a short walk away at Wolfson Court, part of Girton College. Each student will have their own room. All meals are provided, and we will make every effort to cater for special dietary requirements.