HSDC’s South Downs Campus was alive with energy and enthusiasm recently as students from Entry Level 3, Level 1 and GCSE Maths took part in the College Final of the MEI FE Maths Challenge.
Every year, MEI (Mathematics in Education and Industry) runs this national competition aimed at post-16 students who are working to improve their maths skills. It’s always an exciting opportunity for HSDC’s students to develop not only their mathematical thinking, but also essential workplace-ready soft skills such as communication, teamwork, resilience and problem solving.
Working in pairs, these students tackled a series of engaging Maths-based challenges, including a challenging Tarsia puzzle and a fast-paced Kahoot quiz. These tasks, performed in a demanding, high-pressure environment, were the perfect setting to encourage students to communicate effectively and manage their time, skills that form the foundation of confident and capable professionals.
The L1/Entry Level students and their certificates.
The atmosphere of determination and curiosity reflects one of HSDC’s key strengths: providing young people with real opportunities to engage with their subjects in ways that are dynamic and accessible, whilst also working to build their confidence. The Challenge offered students the perfect platform to approach Maths differently, through teamwork and friendly competition, and was the perfect way for students to develop foundational, work-ready skills whilst working towards an essential qualification.
After an impressive display of ambition across all levels, two Entry Level teams, one Level 1 team and two GCSE teams qualified for the next round, securing their places at the upcoming Regional Final, held at Brighton MET College in March. Their achievement is a testament not only to their mathematical ability, but also to the personal growth that they have consistently shown throughout their studies.
Staff who attended the Challenge noted a significant boost in students’ confidence as they worked through the different rounds. Learners were supporting each other and employing collaboration to succeed. Participants in the Challenge shared that the competition helped them to see Maths in a new light, and reminded them of what they are capable of achieving.
Lucy Moffett, who helped to organise the Final, remarked on the employability and life skills that can come from challenges like this:
“It’s always a privilege to see these students engage in maths with genuine enthusiasm. Seeing their pride, self-esteem and confidence grow is incredibly rewarding.”
HSDC’s commitment to enjoyable, inclusive and career-focused learning ensures that students not only progress academically
but also build the essential soft skills needed for future study and employment. Events like the MEI FE Maths Challenge reinforce the fact that when students feel encouraged, supported and challenged, they can develop into ambitious, capable and work-ready learners.
The whole HSDC community congratulates the finalists and wishes them the very best for the Regional Final in Brighton!