The mathematical life of a 1729 student blends strong foundations with intellectual exploration. Fundamental Mathematics builds precision, depth and confidence, while Contemporary Mathematics introduces new ideas and new ways of thinking through problem-solving, discussion and inquiry. Together, they foster curiosity, independence and a deeper way of thinking about mathematics. Learn more about how we teach maths.


In Fundamental Mathematics, the first months will be devoted to carefully strengthening and aligning the foundations of the group: closing any gaps in knowledge or habits, broadening mathematical experience, and deepening understanding. As our students arrive with different backgrounds and strengths, this period is especially important. It allows us to understand how each child thinks, what comes naturally to them, where they need greater challenge, and where they may need more support.
Some of the topics we begin with may at first seem surprising to both parents and students: “surely they have already done this.” In practice, this is often only true on the surface. We revisit core ideas not to repeat them mechanically, but to make them stronger, deeper, and more secure. At the same time, there will always be additional problems, extensions, and richer challenges available for students who are ready to go further, so no one is left without something interesting to think about. Equally, if a child finds the transition intense or at times overwhelming, we will be paying close attention and offering support. This is a period of adaptation, and we intend to be alongside the students throughout it.
In both Fundamental Mathematics and Contemporary Mathematics, our curriculum is guided not only by mathematical content, but also by the habits of mind we want students to develop. We want them to grow in curiosity, to learn to look for structure, to communicate mathematical ideas clearly, and to develop reflection and perseverance when a problem is difficult or unfamiliar. In practical terms, this means thoughtful problem solving, careful written work, discussion of different methods, oral explanation, and tasks that require students to make decisions rather than simply follow instructions. We want students to become more independent, more precise, and more confident when facing uncertainty.
Contemporary Mathematics, on the other hand, adds an additional dimension to the programme. The purpose of this part of the curriculum is to widen students’ understanding of what mathematics can be. Here, students encounter ideas that reflect the character of modern mathematical thinking. The very first topics will include set theory and logic, followed swiftly by combinatorics and elementary probability, approached in a way that is both accessible and intellectually serious. We want students to see mathematics not only as a set of techniques to be mastered, but also as a living discipline, full of patterns, questions, and connections.
The material students meet in Contemporary Mathematics course may at times feel less familiar than the mathematics they have previously studied, and that is entirely intentional. We want them to experience the excitement of meeting new ideas and learning how to approach them carefully and confidently. Wherever possible, we begin with accessible examples and concrete problems, then gradually guide students towards deeper and more general insights. The aim is not to present advanced topics for their own sake, but to help students develop intuition, intellectual flexibility, and a readiness to think beyond routine methods. Because many of these ideas will be new, we will support students closely as they learn to navigate them.
Contemporary Mathematics will be taught in an inquiry based style. Students will first attempt to solve problems independently and will then present their solutions to tutors, who will include members of staff and PhD students working as tutors at 1729. In practical terms, this course will involve exploration, discussion, conjecture, and justification. Students will learn how to give a convincing mathematical argument by presenting and defending their reasoning. At appropriate moments, they will also use computational tools, including some programming, to explore examples and test hypotheses. We see this not as an optional extra, but as an important part of engaging with mathematics in a thoughtful and modern way.

Over time, our aim is to provide a mathematics education that is deep, well connected, and firmly grounded in strong foundations. Fundamental Mathematics strengthens precision, fluency, and secure technique, while Contemporary Mathematics broadens horizons and develops abstraction, generalisation, curiosity, and intellectual independence. Together, the two strands are intended to give students a richer and more complete mathematical education, one that prepares them not only for future examinations, but also for serious mathematical thinking.
For more information about the curriculum, email , explore our Academic Life page or visit our school