University of Liverpool Mathematics School

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 March 2024

Students are highly motivated and exceptionally keen to achieve well in their studies. They consistently demonstrate positive attitudes to their learning and attendance is very high. Students enthuse about the nurturing culture fostered by staff. They say they can be themselves and grow as an individual. Students benefit from studying in a highly inclusive environment. They talk enthusiastically about how staff use correct pronouns. Students develop a secure understanding of equality and diversity and the impact that this has on the subjects they are studying. For example, computer science students explain website accessibility. They describe how websites can be made accessible so that people with physical disabilities, and motor or visual impairments, do not need to use a mouse. Students access a wide range of activities to support their development. They develop their social skills by completing activities on a Friday afternoon. These include inter-house competitions, sports, dance and music clubs. Students take part in the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, where they learn how to plan hikes. They design meal plans for their peers who have a range of dietary requirements. Female students attend the Women in STEM lunchtime club. They plan Women in STEM Saturdays to attract more female students into the STEM subjects. Students grow significantly in confidence because of being at the school. They access an exceptional personal development curriculum that swiftly develops their communication skills. Students attend workshops at the school and external events such as the Shakespeare North Playhouse. They learn how to find their voice and how to produce writing that is compelling to read. As a result, students confidently pitch projects to panels of judges and take part in academic debates. Students feel safe and know who to contact if they have any concerns. They learn about a range of topics such as domestic abuse, unhealthy relationships, online safety and the risks of radicalisation and extremism. Students speak positively about the order of when these topics are taught. For example, staff discuss sensitive topics such as healthy relationships only when students are comfortable speaking in front of their peers.

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