Leeds Mathematics School has welcomed its first cohort of 70 students to the former Leeds Building Society headquarters.
The landmark building in Leeds city centre has been converted into a state-of-the-art sixth form college for maths students as part of a partnership between the University of Leeds and GORSE Academies Trust.
The specialist college for 16 to 19-year-olds, aims to widen participation in mathematical sciences and STEM-related careers and close gaps in the participation of female students and young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Facilities include a double-height lecture theatre, classrooms, laboratories, dining and social facilities, offices and a fitness suite.
The new home of Leeds Mathematics School (LMaS), which is located on the corner of the Headrow and Albion Street, will create an inspirational environment for up to 240 students.
The School offers a high-quality city centre hub to young people from all backgrounds, who are eager to participate in an innovative and exciting environment.
The current intake are all studying Mathematics and Further Mathematics A-levels, and two more subjects chosen from Chemistry, Computer Science, Physics and Mandarin Chinese.
Jeff Grabill, Deputy Vice Chancellor: Student Education at the University of Leeds, said: “The School offers a high-quality city centre hub to young people from all backgrounds, who are eager to participate in an innovative and exciting environment.
“Many individuals can now explore their interest in Mathematics and associated subjects with excellent teachers in small classes. This is an opportunity that might not have previously existed for many of them.”
David Holtham, Executive Principal of GORSE Academies Trust, which oversees 12 schools or colleges in Leeds, said: “We are sure that students will be inspired by the facilities in the building which will support them in achieving their full potential.
“We would also like to recognise the significant financial contribution made by the Department of Education in securing us this iconic building and refurbishing it to provide world class facilities.”
The conversion of the building was carried out by Morgan Sindall Construction.
Further information
For more information please email Jane Lewis in the University of Leeds press office on j.lewis3@leeds.ac.uk.