Pupils from Saint Paul’s Catholic High School in Wythenshawe recently enjoyed a visit to Disneyland Paris where they focused on how GCSE Maths can be applicable to the planning, design and running of the theme park.

The Gifted and Talented pupils from years 8 and 9 attended three Maths seminars, led by the company Study Experiences. In one of the seminars, they had to apply their mathematical skills to the design of roller coasters; looked at speed, time and distance; determining velocity, load and forces and calculating minimum downtimes. Another seminar’s aim was to explore shapes, space and measurement, the pupils had to calculate the materials needed for a parade, plan routes, examine timings and look at the costings which would be involved.

In addition to the Disneyland experience, the pupils also got the opportunity to visit central Paris where they spent time at the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

“The pupils had great fun, saw some wonderful sights and, at the same time, were able to develop their knowledge and understanding of Maths,” commented Ms Kelly Wass, Maths teacher who accompanied the pupils. “Experiences such as this highlight the importance of Maths in today’s world and bring the subject to life for the pupils.”

“Whilst at Disneyland, the pupils are given an opportunity to learn about some of the real life practical applications of Maths,” said Head Teacher, Mr Wiktor Daron. “They studied aspects of the subject which I am sure will help them both with their GCSE studies and also when they enter the world of work.”