London’s 1729 Maths School Opens Next Year, Inspired by History

The first specialist mathematics secondary school in the UK, the 1729 Maths School, is set to open in London in September 2024. This school draws inspiration from a famous anecdote involving British mathematician G. H. Hardy and his Indian colleague Srinivasa Ramanujan. Their conversation about the number 1729, which Ramanujan described as “the most interesting number,” highlights its unique mathematical properties. It is the smallest number expressible as the sum of two cubes in two different ways, specifically 1729 = 1³ + 12³ = 9³ + 10³.

Commemorating a Mathematical Legacy

The story of Hardy and Ramanujan has become a cherished tale within British mathematics. The term “taxicab number” now reflects the significance of 1729, which describes any number that can be expressed as the sum of two cubes in multiple ways. The establishment of the 1729 Maths School serves to commemorate this legacy while fostering mathematical talent among young students.

Located on the campus of Mill Hill School, an independent institution in north London, the 1729 Maths School will cater to students from the age of 12. Its initial cohorts will consist of 18 pupils in year 7 and 10 pupils in year 9. This innovative school is backed by philanthropists Alex Gerko and his wife Elena Gerko, whose wealth originates from the algorithmic trading firm XTX Markets.

Encouraging Diversity in Mathematics

The 1729 Maths School aims to nurture exceptional mathematical talent, particularly from underrepresented groups. This initiative aligns with the existing network of nine university maths schools across the UK, which focus on mathematics and related subjects. Notably, this will be the first maths school to accept pupils starting at age 12.

To ensure accessibility, the school will offer bursaries to students who may struggle with tuition fees. Applications for year 7 and year 9 are currently open, with a deadline of October 31, 2023. Interested parents and teachers are encouraged to register their interest on the school’s website, where a representative will follow up with more information.

The 1729 Maths School not only seeks to provide a strong mathematical education but also aims to engage students through challenging puzzles and problems, reminiscent of the historical discussions between Hardy and Ramanujan. The school fosters a community where young mathematicians can thrive and explore their potential.

As the school prepares to welcome its first students, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of mathematical inquiry and collaboration, inspired by a simple London cab ride that changed the landscape of mathematics forever.