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Maths from the underground residential

A free residential event for current year 12 students from UK-based state schools!

Apply today for an immersive three-night maths residential at King's College, University of Cambridge. Our ‘Maths from the Underground’ residential isn't just about learning mathematics — it's about transforming how you approach and solve mathematical problems.

What's Involved?

The four day (three night) residential will take place from the 26th - 29th August 2025 and will provide the opportunity for current year 12 students to explore mathematical concepts beyond the standard school curriculum, as well as deepen their understanding in areas such as Geometry, Mechanics, Trigonometry, Projectiles and Parabolas (and many more!)

Under the guidance of King’s Mathematics Fellows, attendees will have the opportunity to transform how they approach and solve mathematical problems.

Students will also experience the types of abstract reasoning and critical thinking expected at university level, which will support them when applying to study mathematics at competitive universities, such as the University of Cambridge

There will be downtime in the evening for students to socialise with other attendees, alongside exciting social activities run by current King’s students.

Meals will be provided in the King’s College Dining Hall.

How much does it cost?

This event is completely free to attend. Travel expenses will be covered for students who can provide evidence of eligibility for free school meals (FSM). We may also cover expenses for students who are not eligible for FSM but can provide evidence of a household income below median average earnings in the UK. Please email: slo@kings.cam.ac.uk, if you are unsure about your eligibility.

Where will the event take place?

The event will take place at King's College, University of Cambridge and the University’s Maths Faculty. Attendees will be required to stay overnight in student accommodation.

Eligibility Criteria and selection

- Current Year 12 students who will be going into Year 13 in September 2025 (England and Wales). Students entering S6 in September 2025 (Scotland). Students going into Year 14 in 2025 (Northern Ireland). 

- Currently studying at a UK state school

- Students expecting to achieve an A* in maths at A Level (England, Wales and Northern Ireland), or an A in Advanced Highers Maths (Scotland)

- Students seeking to study a maths-related undergraduate degree and wish to deepen their understanding of maths

The event is open to all who meet the above criteria, but in the event of being oversubscribed, students will be selected based on widening participation criteria.

How to apply?

To take part in this event, you can apply via our online form. The deadline for completing the form is: 5pm on Friday 25 July 2025.

Please note, as part of the application process for this event we require a teachers reference. You will be asked to supply the name of your nominated teacher via the above form, therefore we recommend you have those details (name of your nominated teacher and their email address) ready before you apply. We will then make contact with your teacher and request a reference. 

Home-educated students - this should be someone who has an idea of your academic ability (e.g. tutors), but cannot be a family member.

Support with travel costs

We can support travel costs for students eligible for free school meals. If you are not eligible for free school meals but would like to request financial assistance, we may be able to provide support on a discretionary basis with evidence of household income. 

Get in touch

If you have any questions about this event, please contact us at: slo@kings.cam.ac.uk, or you can call the Undergraduate Admissions Office on: 01223331133.

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