When Exeter Mathematics School opened in 2014 under the free schools initiative, it established something genuinely innovative: a regional centre of excellence exclusively for mathematically ambitious young people aged 16-19. Based in Rougemont House, a Grade II listed building next to Exeter Castle in the heart of the city, the school serves approximately 120 students from across the South West, with weekly boarding facilities for those too far away for daily commutes. The 2024 Ofsted inspection confirmed the school's elite status, rating it Outstanding across all areas. At A-level, results place the school in the top 2% nationally (FindMySchool data), with 40% of grades at A* and 86% at A*-B combined. Nine students secured Oxbridge places in the most recent admission cycle — a striking achievement for a school of just 60 leavers annually.
Rougemont House itself speaks to the school's identity. The Victorian building, positioned beside the medieval castle, provides an unconventional setting for sixth form education. Inside, the atmosphere reflects purpose without pretension. Beanbags fill flexible study spaces. Unused classrooms are available to students throughout the day, encouraging self-directed work. The extended lunchtime — 90 minutes on most days — allows students to walk to nearby Exeter College for clubs, sports, or a change of scene without losing teaching time.
Ms Kerry Burnham leads the school as Head. Her leadership has refined an already bold concept: rather than treating specialisation as narrow constraint, the curriculum positions mathematics, physics, and computing as gateways to profound intellectual freedom. The school's motto — captured in the phrase "Freedom for Thinkers"—is lived rather than emblazoned. There is no uniform. No elaborate rulebook. Instead, the school operates on trust, expecting students to dress appropriately and manage their time responsibly. This appeals powerfully to certain students; others need more structure.
The atmosphere among students is collaborative rather than competitive. Problem-solving classes happen at lunchtimes, run by students and staff working side-by-side. The Exeter Maths Certificate, the school's flagship enrichment, requires students to grapple with real-world challenges set by university partners and industry — not hypothetical exam questions. The small cohort size (approximately 60 per year) creates a tight-knit community where everyone knows everyone else, fostering genuine friendships across two years.
The pastoral programme underpins academic life. The Tutorial Programme is deliberately structured to support not just academic progress but wellbeing throughout the two-year journey and beyond. Boarding students experience regular social events and a supportive residential culture. Day students are equally integrated into school life through induction activities, the end-of-year BBQ, and active participation in student council governance.
Exeter Mathematics School is rated Outstanding by Ofsted , with the 2024 inspection confirming sustained excellence. At A-level, the school's results are exceptional. In the latest cohort, 40% of grades were A* and 32% achieved A, placing 86% of all grades at A*-B combined. Comparing to England averages, where only 24% of grades typically reach A*, these figures position the school well above England average (FindMySchool ranking: top 2%).
The school ranks 52nd in England for A-level performance (FindMySchool data), which places it locally in first place among Exeter institutions and among the leading state-funded sixth form colleges nationally. This consistency reflects the depth of teaching. Mathematics is taught with rigour and extension beyond the standard A-level curriculum. Students study across mechanics, statistics, and pure mathematics with depth that prepares them powerfully for university study. Further Mathematics is compulsory for all, ensuring students leave equipped not just to pass exams but to think mathematically about complex systems.
All students study A-level Mathematics and Further Mathematics alongside either Physics or Computer Science. A small number elect to take both Physics and Computer Science, reducing their college option from five to zero hours. Physics is taught almost entirely in dedicated specialist laboratories, emphasising practical skills and experimental rigour. The Computer Science course emphasises programming and abstract thinking, with exposure to Python, Java, and C, alongside hands-on work with Raspberry Pis and Arduinos.
The school enters students for UKMT Mathematics Challenges and Olympiads, Physics Olympiad, the British Informatics Olympiad, and the Bebras computational challenge. These competitions serve not as pure grade-drivers but as intellectual enrichment, allowing students to explore mathematics and computing beyond the confines of exam syllabi.
The 2024 cohort data reveals the elite university pipeline. 65% of leavers progressed to university, reflecting the school's explicit positioning as preparation for higher study. In the most recent admission cycle, 18 students applied to Oxbridge, with nine securing places (50% acceptance rate). This stands out sharply against national Oxbridge acceptance rates typically below 7%, highlighting the school's role in preparing candidates for the most competitive institutions.
Beyond Oxbridge, leavers regularly secure places at Russell Group universities, particularly in STEM disciplines. The majority progress to mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science at leading institutions. One notable pathway is the progression of medical students; the school's rigorous science teaching and interview preparation support successful applications to medical school.
England ranks and key metrics (where available)
A-Level A*-B
85.52%
% of students achieving grades A*-B
The curriculum deliberately extends beyond A-level examinations. At its heart sits the Exeter Maths Certificate (EMC), a year-long project in which every student engages with real-world mathematical challenges set by university academics and industry partners. Students work independently on research, collaborate with peers, and present findings — developing the kind of scholarly independence university demands. This is not busywork; it is positioned as the highlight of the two-year programme.
Curriculum X modules provide further enrichment, allowing students to explore advanced topics including complex numbers, matrices, proof, and applications beyond the standard syllabus. Problem-Solving Classes run at lunchtimes, creating space for weekly collaborative problem-grappling in a low-pressure environment. These classes develop the resilience and creative thinking that separate good mathematicians from exceptional ones.
Teaching is delivered by specialists with deep subject knowledge. The school employs practitioners who have studied and researched mathematics, physics, and computing at university level. Class sizes remain small — typically under 20 — allowing individualised attention. The philosophy is that rigorous teaching and genuine intellectual engagement should go hand in hand.
The Tutorial Programme builds alongside academic work. Each student meets weekly with a tutor, moving beyond timetabled lessons into conversations about university choices, careers, personal challenges, and intellectual development. This is mentoring at scale: structured, deliberate, and consistently delivered.
Students also tap into the extensive resources of Exeter College, situated a short walk away. During the extended lunchtime, they access the college's sports facilities, societies, and enrichment courses. This partnership means that a student interested in languages, economics, or art — subjects not offered at EMS — can broaden their experience without leaving the immediate area.
Extracurricular life at Exeter Mathematics School balances rigorous academics with genuine breadth. While the curriculum necessarily focuses on mathematics, physics, and computing, the school recognises that students need variety, social connection, and opportunities to explore beyond their core subjects.
The school actively encourages student-initiated clubs. The annual StarCraft tournament, started by a student, has become a fixture. Last year saw the school's inaugural Table Tennis tournament. Chess, juggling, board games, and Frisbee features on the informal activities list. These student-led clubs speak to the school's culture of trust: if students want to organise something, the school provides space and resources.
During the extended lunchtime, students regularly visit Exeter College, where they access a far broader range of clubs and activities. Participation has included Jiu Jitsu, Debating Club, Ten Tors (outdoor expedition competition), Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Model United Nations, Jazz Project, Basketball, Rugby, Hockey, British Sign Language, Christian Union, LGBTQ+ Club, Young Enterprise, gym membership, Big Band, Orchestra, and Badminton. One student described Debating Club as "a great way to do something different outside of EMS," while another found Ten Tors "a great way to make friends" despite challenging conditions in the Dartmoor hills.
Beyond the EMC and Curriculum X, students regularly enter external academic competitions. These include UKMT challenges and Olympiads in mathematics, the Institute of Physics team challenge, Physics Olympiad, the Bebras computational challenge (aimed at developing computational thinking), the English Speaking Board examination, chess competitions, and the Linguistics Olympiad. Participation is voluntary but encouraged; students preparing together at lunchtimes often achieve excellent results, though the emphasis falls on development and shared problem-solving rather than trophy collection.
Sport here is not an afterthought. The college's extensive facilities — including gym access, coaching in multiple sports, and competitive match opportunities — are available to EMS students. Rugby, hockey, and cricket represent the traditional offerings, but the college's portfolio extends to dozens of sports. One student noted that playing hockey twice weekly, with matches on Wednesday afternoons, "not only helped me love the sport but also gave me amazing people I wouldn't have otherwise met."
Music features through college access. The Orchestra meets weekly on Wednesday lunchtime, drawing students and college musicians together. One violinist described the experience: "I really enjoy it because it means I play my violin more during the week. I've performed in concerts with full orchestra and it's really nice because performing makes me happy!" The Big Band serves jazz enthusiasts. The college also runs regular student performances and events, though these sit secondary to the school's core STEM focus.
EMS runs significant outreach programmes, particularly in the autumn term, bringing younger students from across the South West for masterclasses and enrichment activities. School students volunteer extensively in these programmes, supporting primary and secondary pupils and gaining valuable mentoring experience. Students also volunteer during parent evenings, manage the school library, and maintain communal spaces. The school has recently introduced a voluntary form completed at the start of the year, allowing students to choose outreach events and school activities they wish to support. This has proved popular and gives all students an opportunity to engage meaningfully in school life.
Induction week features social activities alongside academics — sports, meals out, and board games — building community from day one. The end-of-year EMS BBQ has become a regular fixture. For boarding students, regular social events throughout the year reinforce residential community. The student council, meeting half-termly, holds genuine power: co-chairs attend governors meetings, ensuring student voices shape school decisions. Last year, council members collaborated with staff on major improvements including homework system redesign and courtyard re-imagining.
Entry to Exeter Mathematics School is highly selective. The school requires prospective applicants to have achieved grades 8-9 in GCSE Mathematics and Physics or Computer Science, plus at least six GCSEs at grade 5 or above including English at grade 6. This is the baseline; the school then assesses students through its own admissions process. Over the past several years, the school has received significantly more applications than places available, making entry genuinely competitive.
The application window typically opens in autumn with open days and taster sessions. Prospective students should check the school website for precise dates and registration deadlines. The admissions process involves completing the online form and attending assessments tailored to demonstrate mathematical thinking and problem-solving ability rather than pure memory.
The school serves the South West region deliberately. Those living within roughly an hour's drive can manage daily commutes. For those further afield, weekly boarding (Monday to Friday) is offered. This regional role underpins the school's identity as a hub for mathematical talent across Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset.
Approximately 100 of the 120 students board on a weekly basis, returning home each Friday. Monday-to-Friday boarding is the model, with the school closed weekends. Boarding students live in residential accommodation integrated with the school site. The boarding community develops strong bonds; boarders have their own social events throughout the year, though staff are actively working to extend social programming to day students so the experience feels inclusive regardless of residential status.
Boarding at EMS is not traditional in the public school sense. There is no Saturday school (though students do engage in enrichment activities on Saturday mornings for some competitions). Pastoral support is integrated throughout, with house staff living on-site and knowing residents well.
This is a state school with no tuition fees . School hours run 8:00am to 5:30pm Monday to Thursday, and 8:00am to 3:15pm on Fridays, with the school closed weekends. The extended lunchtime (typically 90 minutes) accommodates college access. During term, boarding students remain on-site; during holidays, they return home. Boarding students should budget for meals and any activities. The school is located in central Exeter near the castle, making it accessible by public transport. Local rail and bus connections serve the area well. Parking is available but limited, reflecting the city centre location.
Specialism over breadth. The curriculum is deliberately narrow: Mathematics, Further Mathematics, and Physics or Computer Science. This suits students with genuine passion for these subjects. Those seeking to study humanities, languages, or social sciences should look elsewhere, though the college option does allow some flexibility.
High entry standards. Grades 8-9 in GCSE Mathematics and Physics are non-negotiable. Selective entry means the peer group is uniformly high-achieving. For some students, this creates a supportive community of similarly ambitious peers. For others, it can feel pressured.
No uniform, but high expectations. The school operates on trust. This works brilliantly for self-motivated students comfortable with autonomy. Those needing clearer external structure or more frequent boundaries may find the freedom disorientating.
Boarding is primarily weekly. For families seeking traditional full boarding or flexi-boarding arrangements, this is not the model. Conversely, for those living too far for daily commutes, the Monday-to-Friday option works well without requiring long-term separation.
Exeter Mathematics School delivers elite mathematics and STEM education within a genuinely innovative model. The 2024 Ofsted Outstanding rating, top 2% A-level ranking, and Oxbridge pipeline attest to sustained academic excellence. More importantly, the school combines intellectual rigour with unusual trust in students: there is no uniform, no rigid rulebook, and real freedom to pursue deeper understanding alongside core exams. The Exeter Maths Certificate model — engaging real-world challenges set by universities and industry — distinguishes this from standard A-level courses.
The school suits students who are mathematically passionate, self-motivated, and ready for intellectual independence. It is ideal for those aiming at top universities, particularly in STEM disciplines. The weekly boarding option works well for families across the South West who cannot manage daily commutes. Best suited to mathematically gifted 16-year-olds who thrive on challenge, collaboration, and genuine intellectual freedom. The main consideration is that specialism in STEM is non-negotiable; this is not a broad sixth form option but a focused mathematical academy.
Yes. The 2024 Ofsted inspection awarded Outstanding ratings . A-level results place the school in the top 2% nationally (FindMySchool data), with 40% of grades at A*. Nine students secured Oxbridge places in the latest admission cycle. The school ranks first locally among sixth form colleges and attracts consistently high-performing students from across the South West.
Applicants must have GCSE grades 8-9 in Mathematics and Physics or Computer Science, plus at least six GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English Language at grade 6. The school then assesses students through its own admissions process, selecting approximately 60 students from significantly more applicants annually. Entry is highly competitive.
All students must study A-level Mathematics, Further Mathematics, and either Physics or Computer Science. Some students elect to take both Physics and Computer Science. Students may add a fourth subject from Exeter College's extensive offering, including A-levels, AS levels, BTECs, and enrichment courses (Extend). Subjects offered at college include languages, humanities, sciences, and vocational qualifications, allowing some breadth despite the core STEM focus.
Yes, approximately 100 of the 120 students board on a weekly Monday-to-Friday basis. Boarding students remain on-site during term and return home for weekends and holidays. This arrangement suits families from across the South West who cannot manage daily commutes. Boarding students experience a supportive residential community with regular social events and integrated pastoral care.
The Exeter Maths Certificate (EMC) is the school's flagship enrichment programme. Every student engages in a year-long project tackling real-world mathematical challenges set by university academics and industry partners. Students carry out independent research, collaborate with peers, and present findings. This develops the kind of scholarly independence, problem-solving resilience, and mathematical maturity that distinguishes graduates heading to top universities. The EMC is positioned as a highlight of the two-year course.
In 2024, 65% of leavers progressed to university. The academic profile means most study STEM subjects at leading institutions, with particular strength in mathematics, physics, engineering, and computer science. Nine of the cohort secured Oxbridge places. Beyond Oxbridge, leavers regularly attend Russell Group universities. 22% of leavers moved into employment directly, and 7% took apprenticeships.
Yes, it is a state-funded free school. There are no tuition fees. The school is sponsored by Exeter College and the University of Exeter, operating as a non-profit single-academy trust. Boarding students incur costs for meals and accommodation during term time but receive no tuition charges.
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