Get on board with Maths Week in Kildare
Fun and games
Prepare to dive into the exciting and intriguing world of maths as Maths Week 2024 kicks off in Kildare today, Saturday, October 12, and runs through Sunday, October 20.
This annual celebration brings a vibrant mix of events and activities aimed at making maths fun and engaging for learners of all ages, right here in your community.
This all-island initiative reaches over 500,000 participants each year, and in Kildare, more than 21,864 pupils are already signed up to take part. Local schools, libraries, and community centres will be buzzing with interactive workshops, games, and puzzles designed to showcase just how exciting maths can be.
Maths Week is not just about numbers on a page; it’s about discovering how maths shapes the world around us and plays a role in everything from nature to technology. Whether it’s solving everyday problems, exploring complex challenges, or uncovering patterns, this celebration invites everyone to join in the fun and practical side of maths.
In Kildare, events are tailored to local schools and community groups, offering engaging ways to explore maths. A highlight is ‘A Periodic Paper Caper’ at Maynooth University’s Hamilton Institute on Wednesday, 18 October. Dr. Rachel Quinlan from the University of Galway will use origami to explore periodic patterns in nature and human artefacts, such as textiles and architecture, while discussing the seventeen "wallpaper groups" that classify these patterns.
“Maths Week is a wonderful opportunity to bring people together and showcase the real-world impact of maths,” said Eoin Gill, Maths Week Ireland Co-ordinator. “We are always amazed by the excitement and curiosity we see from participants, especially when they realise how maths applies to everyday life. It’s not just about numbers – it’s about problem-solving, thinking critically, and having fun with it.”
Gill continued, “In Kildare, we have over 21,864 students involved this year, and the enthusiasm has been incredible. Maths Week is a great chance for everyone - from school children to adults - to experience maths in a way that is fun and accessible, and we encourage the whole community to join in.”
Maths Week isn’t just about fun; it’s about opening up a world of possibilities. From problem-solving to critical thinking, maths is a key skill in so many areas of life and work. During the week, students and participants will get hands-on experiences that help to highlight maths' role in everything from engineering to everyday life.
With local participation growing each year, Maths Week 2024 promises to be bigger and better, helping to inspire future generations of mathematicians, engineers, and problem-solvers in Kildare.
The full programme and details of how to get involved are available on the Maths Week website www.mathsweek.ie.