Students from the University’s School of Teacher Education dedicated their time to the ‘Try Mathematics Project’ – an initiative they’ve worked on with the support of their mathematics lecturer and the Bedford Blues Rugby Club, Head of Community. The aim of the project is to help primary school children apply their mathematics skills through sports.

Final year Teacher Education student, Luke Bilton said: “Sport is very engaging for children, but there can be children with a fixed mind-set that think they can’t do maths. Through rugby, this project shows they can in a very active manner. It develops their understanding of maths and how they can use it in everyday activities.

“Hopefully more and more schools will attach to it and it will be beneficial to a lot more children. It’s great to be recognised but the whole idea is to benefit the children.”

Based on developing key mathematical skills and processes in KS2 students which include communication, rationalising and strategic thinking, ‘Try Mathematics’ further develops the University’s links with the Bedford Blues Rugby Club and local schools.

Senior Lecturer in Teacher Education, Mieka Harris is delighted the students were recognised for all their hard work. “They’re superstars to teach. They have volunteered their time to do the project along with all their other studies. What has been impressive is their pedagogical skills and applying what they have learnt at university and taking it out into the community.

“Maths unfortunately isn’t always everybody’s favourite subject but what we’re trying to do is showcase it in different ways so you can enjoy it.”

Bedford Blues Head of Community Dominic Fraser said: “The great thing about this programme is that the mathematical and strategic side of planning rugby moves inside will then be put in to practise outside straight away.

“Two big learning aspects from this programme are promoting planning before undergoing an activity and other avenues within sport, like a sports analysist, other than playing.”

The Lord Lieutenant’s Community Engagement Award recognises, promotes and celebrates the work of students who have made a tangible and outstanding contribution to communities within Bedfordshire and as a result have lived the missions and values of the University.