South Bank Colleges is celebrating an outstanding achievement after two learners represented the college in the national final of the MEI Further Education Maths Challenge, securing an impressive 10th place nationally.

The competition attracted 58,416 students from across the country, making this a remarkable result for the college, particularly as it was South Bank Colleges’ first time entering the challenge.

The national final took place in Solihull, where 100 students from 21 colleges came together to test their mathematical skills, problem-solving ability and confidence under pressure.

Representing South Bank Colleges were learners Ashley and Abel, who both performed extremely well throughout the event. Their achievement is especially impressive because many other colleges entered teams of four students, while South Bank Colleges was represented by just two learners.

The challenge questions were particularly demanding, requiring students to think carefully, apply their knowledge and approach problems creatively. Ashley and Abel rose to the occasion and represented the college with focus, determination and maturity.

Jawad Chaouki, Curriculum Head: Maths at South Bank Colleges, said, “I’m pleased to share that our college placed 10th nationally in the maths MEI Challenge out of 58,416 students. I think this is an excellent achievement.

“Our two learners, Ashley and Abel, performed very well, especially considering that all the other colleges had groups of four learners participating. The questions were particularly challenging, making their performance even more impressive.

“I am proud of their achievement and the way they represented the college.”

The MEI Further Education Maths Challenge is designed to encourage mathematical thinking and problem-solving among further education students. It gives learners the chance to use their maths skills in a competitive and engaging setting, while also building confidence and resilience.

For South Bank Colleges, this result is a proud moment and a strong foundation for future success. After such a positive first year in the competition, the college is already looking ahead to next year’s challenge, with the ambition to build on this achievement and move even closer to the top spot.

Congratulations to Ashley and Abel on this excellent national success.