Curves, Catapults and AI: Y10 Explore Maths in the Real World

On Friday 23 January 2026, a group of our Year 10 mathematicians visited the University of East Anglia (UEA) for a day of hands‑on workshops with the East Maths Community, designed to show how mathematics powers real‑world problem solving across science, business and technology.

Students rotated through three high-energy sessions. In “Hit the Target: Curves & Catapults” they modelled projectile motion—predicting parabolic curves, testing launches with a tabletop catapult and a squash ball, and comparing results with their calculated trajectories. In “Using Maths to Make a Profit” they tackled logistics challenges, applying ratios, optimisation and data handling to keep a fictional company efficient and profitable. A third workshop, “The Mathematics Behind AI,” introduced the ideas that underpin modern algorithms and data processing, helping students see how topics from sequences to probability and functions connect to emerging technologies.

We were proud of how our students engaged, asked thoughtful questions and worked as a team. On the journey home, feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on how the day made GCSE Maths feel even more relevant to future study and careers.

Kirsty Isaacs, Teacher of Maths, said:

“Our Year 10s were brilliant—resilient, curious and up for every challenge. Seeing them link classroom ideas to physics, business and AI was exactly the confidence boost we wanted at this point in the year.”

The visit also supports our careers programme—giving students meaningful encounters with higher education and showing the pathways that strong mathematical thinking can open. A huge thank you to the UEA team and to the East Maths Community for hosting such a purposeful, well-structured day. Thanks also to Ms Isaacs for leading.

Well done, Year 10—you represented Great Yarmouth Charter Academy superbly.