HSDC is celebrating an outstanding achievement by students from South Downs Campus, following their success at the 2026 MEI FE Maths Challenge Final, held at the University of Sussex in Brighton.
Following on from the College Final stage of the Challenge, HSDC’s students from both GCSE and Functional Skills Mathematics once again demonstrated exceptional mathematical ability, teamwork and determination on a national stage.
This stage of the competition consisted of two contrasting elements designed to test both problem-solving skills and speed. The first was a Tarsia Puzzle, a domino-style challenge requiring teams to accurately match mathematical equations, and the second was a fast-paced and interactive Kahoot Quiz, giving students the opportunity to demonstrate their accuracy under pressure.
The GCSE Team, ‘Go Forth’ secured an extremely impressive second-place finish, narrowly missing out on first place after the competition went right down to the final question, making this HSDC’s most successful result at the MEI FE Maths Challenge!
The team comprised:
- Reegan Brennan
- Heidi Tomlinson
- Hannah Whiting
- Archer Chappell
- Casey Alp
These students’ achievements are a testament not only to their strong understanding of the subject, but also to their composure under pressure and ability to work collaboratively – two key skills that the challenge is designed to develop and celebrate.
HSDC was also proudly represented by its Functional Skills team, ‘The Funkies’, who achieved a highly commendable fifth place overall among colleges from across the country.
The team included:
- Hannah Payne
- Grace Williams
- Maddie Verrinder-Burnham
As part of the day, these students also took part in a guided tour of the University of Sussex campus, giving them valuable insight into higher education life, and helping to raise aspirations for further study beyond college.
Their success at the competition reflects HSDC’s strong emphasis on enrichment-led learning, where students are encouraged to engage with their subjects in original, enjoyable and meaningful ways. All learners at the College, regardless of course or level, are given the opportunity to build confidence, develop transferable skills and realise their potential.
The achievements of these students at this year’s final stand as a clear demonstration of talent, commitment and the supportive learning environment fostered at HSDC.