The British Mathematical Olympiad

At the end of the Michaelmas term some of Repton’s finest mathematicians took part in Round 1 of the British Mathematical Olympiad.

This is a three and a half hour paper of six questions encompassing algebra and geometry. Candidates must produce complete and accurate solutions to as many problems as they can. They are required to prove any statements they make in the course of their answers and only correct formal proofs are rewarded. This is a considerable challenge and very different from the approach taken at GCSE and A-level. Honglie Chen (L6S) and Dake Qi (L6O) received certificates of distinction for their efforts. Congratulations must also go to Kathy Chen, Yubo Jia, Francis Song and Z, Chen for qualifying and participating in this, the most challenging of mathematical problems they are ever likely to face at Repton.