Ribbon cut on world-class maths school

The Lancaster University School of Mathematics has officially opened following an £8.5m investment.

The school is housed in a brand new bespoke building situated on London Road, close to Preston’s city centre and the main campus of Cardinal Newman College.

It has already begun delivering world-class mathematics education for 16 to 18 year-olds from across Lancashire.

Attracting students from all backgrounds, LUSoM is helping to raise aspirations throughout Preston and the wider area, unlock potential and propel young people on their journey towards successful careers.

LUSoM is a collaboration between two outstanding education providers, Lancaster University, which is consistently ranked among the best in the UK and top 15 in national league tables, and Cardinal Newman College, one of the highest performing Sixth Form Colleges nationally, based on A-Level progress.

Dignitaries including two MPs from the region joined pupils, school staff and other invited guests to watch as Preston’s Mayor Yakub Patel cut the ribbon.

Guests then hears from Professor Wendy Robinson, pro-vice-chancellor for education at Lancaster University and Nick Burnham, executive principal of LUSoM and principal of Cardinal Newman College.

Prof Robinson said: “I am delighted to see the innovative way the school is strengthening the sixth form educational offering around mathematics across the county, making a very real contribution to our ambitions and aspirations for strengthening the skills pipeline for our future workforce in Lancashire.

“Lancaster University is very pleased to have worked in close partnership with Cardinal Newman College in the development of the school and our specialist academics are proud to have worked collaboratively with staff and students to enhance the curriculum and the broader learning experience.”

Nick Burnham added: “This school will provide a truly special environment where talented mathematicians can flourish by forming their own community and studying a bespoke mathematical curriculum. The Maths School will build on Cardinal Newman College’s reputation as a centre of excellence for post 16 maths and science and also benefit from the support of a world class HE provider in Lancaster University. Exceptional mathematicians, from all communities across Lancashire will receive outstanding support while studying in an inspiring environment.”

The LUSoM building was designed by Pozzoni Architecture, and Galliford Try were the design and build contractor.

The four-storey building’s exterior features a mixture of brown and black brickwork, glass, a distinctive bronze metal cladding and a rooftop terraced area for students to relax and study.

The interior of the school has a three-storey atrium providing open learning for the students and a welcoming environment for all visitors. A specially designed, retractable 400 seat auditorium has been included within the building to host lecture style sessions in addition to other events and masterclasses.