We are delighted to share the wonderful news that Stretford Grammar School has been formally designated as an Accredited Archimedes Mathematical Thinking School.

Following the conclusion of this year’s Archimedes Awards competition cycle, the organisation’s Academic Council selected our school for this prestigious title. It is a distinction awarded selectively to institutions that demonstrate a commitment to nurturing mathematical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine culture of problem-solving beyond the classroom.

A Lasting Legacy

While this accreditation celebrates the current vitality of our mathematics community, it also stands as a profound honour and a lasting legacy for our colleague Mr McAvoy, whom our school community so recently and tragically lost. Mr McAvoy was instrumental in cultivating the very environment of curiosity, intellectual ambition, and inclusive problem-solving that this award recognises. His passion for making mathematics accessible to every student remains at the heart of our department's philosophy.

Celebrating Broad Participation

The Archimedes Awards place a unique emphasis on the belief that mathematics should be engaging and inspiring for all young people, not just those who are already recognized as the most able. The Academic Council highlighted Stretford Grammar’s success in encouraging broad participation, helping students of all abilities discover their mathematical potential, and build resilience when embracing new challenges.

This recognition also reflects the wonderful feedback shared by our school's families, many of whom have noted how taking part in the Archimedes Awards has strengthened their children's confidence and enthusiasm for the subject.

Assistant Headteacher, Mrs Akhter, commented on the achievement:

This accreditation is a testament to the dedication of our teaching staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the incredible support of our families. We are deeply proud to join this growing network. It validates our core belief that every young person can thrive in mathematics when given the right opportunities. More than anything, it is a beautiful tribute to Mr McAvoy’s vision, ensuring that the culture of mathematical curiosity he built here will continue to inspire generations of Stretford students to come.

Benefits for Our School Community

By accepting this invitation, Stretford Grammar School will join a vibrant network of accredited schools and receive a range of exclusive benefits, including:

• Official Recognition & Branding: Permission to display the official accreditation logo on the school website and materials, alongside a formal certificate for display in the school.
• Priority Invitations: Early access to future competitions, educational initiatives, pilot programmes, and outreach opportunities.
• Academic Enrichment: Exclusive invitations to webinars, lectures, and online talks with leading mathematicians, academics, and STEM professionals.
• Student Opportunities: Priority consideration for outstanding students to participate in international recognition, leadership, and ambassadorial opportunities through the wider Archimedes Awards network.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the leadership, teaching staff, parents, and, most importantly, our brilliant students whose hard work and curiosity made this recognition possible.