Exeter Mathematics School

Highlights from Latest Inspection

Summary of key findings

This is an outstanding provider The school's core vision and values, as established at its foundation by Exeter University and Exeter College, are meticulously designed to cultivate the talents of young mathematicians and scientists. As a result of the culture that governors and senior leaders have developed, learners and staff pursue their passion for mathematics and science creatively by experimenting, challenging, debating and collaborating with each other.

Senior leaders use frequent discussions about teaching, insightful feedback and effective professional development to ensure that teaching is of the highest quality. Senior leaders successfully recruit young people who have not previou...sly had the opportunity to fulfil their potential in mathematics and science. They use the temporary grant for bursaries well to recruit learners who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Currently, the number of female learners is slightly below that of males. The school provides very good residential accommodation for learners who cannot travel daily to the school; as a result, learners improve their independence and ability to care for themselves. Learners make excellent progress and secure A-level grades well above those expected, given their prior achievement.

Outstanding teaching, learning, assessment and support ensure that learners develop high levels of confidence and enthusiasm for their studies and that they work hard to achieve excellent problem-solving skills. All learners progress to university or into employment befitting the skills and knowledge they have developed at Exeter Mathematics School. Learners undertake inspiring projects that extend their skills and knowledge significantly beyond the demands of their A-level courses.

The excellent projects set by industry and academics ensure that learners develop the ability to work independently, carry out research assiduously and present their findings confidently. Teachers and support staff employ their excellent knowledge and understanding of each learner to provide outstanding pastoral and academic support, which contribute to learners' excellent attainment of high grades in examinations, and significantly improve their personal skills.

Information about the provider

Exeter Mathematics School is a state-funded sixth form.

It was founded in 2014 by Exeter University and Exeter College to provide education for the most able mathematicians in four counties: Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset. All learners study A levels in mathematics and further mathematics, and follow a project-based programme devised and delivered in collaboration with Exeter University. In addition, they study A levels in physics and/or computer science, as well as a fourth AS or A level in a subject of their choice at Exeter College.

The school provides residential accommodation for learners who cannot travel daily to the school. The school has approximately 60 learners in each of two year groups. Learners are recruited from all four counties with the highest proportion coming from Devon.

Approximately 20% of learners are from deprived backgrounds and over 25% have a learning difficulty and/or disability. The proportion of learners of Black or other minority ethnic heritage is similar to the south west average. Thirty-two learners are in residential accommodation.

Ofsted inspected the school's residential accommodation in June 2016. Overall effectiveness, safeguarding and leadership and management were judged to be good. Outcomes for learners and the quality of service were judged to be outstanding.