West Thames students shine in national maths challenge

West Thames College students once again demonstrated their mathematical talent and determination as they took part in the annual MEI Further Education (FE) Maths Challenge – a prestigious nationwide competition designed for post-16 learners working towards Functional Skills maths qualifications or aiming to achieve higher grades in GCSE Maths.

The FE Maths Challenge, an extension of the well-known Maths Feasts, brings together colleges from across England to compete in a range of mathematical disciplines. This year, around 120 colleges took part, with students tackling activities focused on problem-solving, comprehension, competition and recreation, and revision relays. Gloria Ackah, Lecturer in GCSE Maths and Functional Skills at West Thames College, explained the importance of the event.

“The FE Maths Challenge is a nationwide event to improve numeracy skills amongst 16 to 19-year-olds. It’s a fun way to engage them, prepare them for their Functional Skills and GCSE Maths exams, and boost their confidence,” she said. “We use interactive activities like Kahoot and Tarsia puzzles to make maths enjoyable and accessible.”

One of the featured activities was a Tarsia domino-style puzzle, where students had to match questions and answers correctly in a fast-paced challenge. Another task saw students answering 20 multiple-choice questions on their phones, with speed and accuracy determining the winners.
Students competed in three groups based on their current level of study:

• Funkies – for students working at Entry Level 3 or who previously achieved a Grade 1 in GCSE Maths
• Ein2steins – for students who achieved a Grade 2 in GCSE Maths or passed Level 1 Functional Skills
• Go Forths – for students who achieved a Grade 3 in GCSE Maths.

West Thames College entered teams across all three categories and achieved fantastic results:

• Go Forths
  1st Place: Said and Yevhen
  2nd Place: Abdirahman and Aldrin
  3rd Place: Viktoriia and Dzheylin
  
  
• Ein2steins
  1st Place: Asra and Seyed Hamed
  2nd Place: Mathumitha and Khadeejah
  3rd Place: Hardeep and Sofia
  
  
• Funkies
  1st Place: Keiran and Dragostin
  2nd Place: Kowsar and Alessia
  3rd Place: Fardowsa and Saynab.

Reflecting on the performance, Gloria shared her optimism: “The goal is always to aim for gold. Last year we achieved two gold medals, and this year I am confident we will bring home more – whether gold, silver or bronze.”

The competition not only celebrates achievement but also reinforces essential skills in teamwork, logical thinking and exam preparation. By blending challenge with creativity, the FE Maths Challenge continues to play a vital role in building students’ confidence and enthusiasm for maths.