Writes Simon Hardman, Head of Mathematics
Over the last two weeks, the inaugural edition of the Merchant Taylors’ Mental Arithmetic Bee took place. Members of the Thirds and Upper Thirds were invited to test the speed and accuracy of their mental calculations against the clock and each other. They were required to complete calculations such as the division of a four-digit number by a two-digit one, add and simplify fractions and multiply two-digit numbers together without the aid of pen and paper and with the pressure of a time limit and an audience.
31 boys entered and, after a competitive first round, the field was narrowed to five boys who took part in the final. The final was hotly contested – literally and figuratively – and, in the end, Kian S. (U3rds) came out a worthy winner after an awe-inspiring final round of multiplication. Neil B. (3rds) was second, with Aathiran N. (3rds) and Aran S. (U3rds) joint third and Arjun M. (3rds) just one point behind to round out the top five. Well done to all involved.
