Maths School gets glowing report

Lancaster University School of Mathematics which opened in September 2022, recently received their first full Ofsted report and Head of School Pete Tiltman was delighted with the outcome.

“With overall grading disappearing from Ofsted reports in September, what was really important for us was the recognition of the extra work which staff and students do, highlighting the opportunities that LUSoM offers beyond the standard A-level curriculum. We pride ourselves on the innovative project work and strong links with the university which feeds the enthusiasm of our students and creates a culture of learning.”

Ofsted were highly complimentary about the atmosphere and culture within the school, commenting “Students are extremely positive about the school and enjoy working alongside peers who share similar interests. They appreciate the inclusive culture where students can be themselves and where expertise and enthusiasm for learning are celebrated.”

Results last year saw LUSoM amongst the top state sixth form providers in the whole of the north of England in both attainment and value added measures. A huge 85% of all grades were A*-B, with 65% A*/A and 30% A*, the average grade being A-. Students from the school went off to study at the top universities including Oxford and Cambridge, and others went on to prestigious degree apprenticeships with BAE and Dyson.

Alongside their A-levels, students benefit from project work with academic mentors from the university and a bespoke careers programme. Ofsted praised the school for their work: “Students benefit from very effective careers advice and guidance. They value frequent encounters with higher education institutions and employers and are very well informed about their next steps and progress to positive destinations. Students complete projects to further their love of mathematics and related disciplines, they use their projects to identify the specialisms that they would like to pursue further at university or in their future careers.”

Ofsted were equally complimentary about the teaching at LUSoM, saying “Teachers teach consistently high-quality lessons using a range of techniques. They use questioning techniques purposefully to encourage students’ curiosity and to model critical thinking.”

Pete Tiltman added to the praise for the staff: “To be part of a new school, starting from scratch and designing a unique curriculum not inhibited by exam specifications is a huge task requiring a deep knowledge and love for their subject. Allied with the outreach work which our staff get involved in just shows how committed they are to LUSoM. It’s a wonderful team effort.”

The full report can be read here: Lancaster University School of Mathematics – Open – Find an Inspection Report – Ofsted

LUSoM is a collaboration between two outstanding education providers, Lancaster University, which is consistently ranked among the best universities in the UK and top 15 in national league tables, and Cardinal Newman College, one of the highest performing Sixth Form Colleges nationally, based on A-Level progress.

LUSoM is a collaboration between two outstanding education providers, Lancaster University, which is consistently ranked among the best universities in the UK and top 15 in national league tables, and Cardinal Newman College, one of the highest performing Sixth Form Colleges nationally, based on A-Level progress.