Meet 10-Year-Old Samuel Pais – His Bold Plan Leading a Maths Revolution
March 26, 2025 - Today is World Maths Day – a global celebration aimed at inspiring a love for maths and breaking down barriers to learning. However, findings from a new UK teacher poll reveal that more than half (56%) of primary teachers agree that the perception of having a 'natural talent' for maths prevents students from achieving their full potential in the subject.
In Australia, experts reinforce these findings, stressing the importance of dispelling the notion that some people are simply "not maths people".
"Too many children are held back by the belief that they are 'not a maths person.' The reality is everyone can develop mathematical thinking with the right support and mindset. Activities which challenge these misconceptions and help students see maths as something they can enjoy and excel in should be embraced and supported." Said Professor Catherine Attard, Chair of the Australian Association of Mathematics Teachers (AAMT).
One young Australian helping to reshape attitudes towards maths is 10-year-old Samuel Pais, a Year 6 student at St. Luke's Grammar School in Sydney's Dee Why and a budding maths prodigy. A World Maths Day ambassador, Samuel is passionate about making maths more accessible to all students. Currently studying Year 9 accelerator mathematics, Samuel is leading the charge at his school with an innovative program designed to create a more inclusive and engaging maths culture.
His initiative includes Break-Time, Maths Club, Homework Club, Maths Assembly, Maths Awards, and a Maths Buddy System. For parents, he hopes to introduce a seminar featuring speaker to help them inspire their children to enjoy maths.
Samuel said: "Maths is something everyone can enjoy and be good at with the right support."
AAMT emphasises that teachers and parents play a crucial role in shaping students' confidence in maths. Professor Attard adds:
"Research suggests that students' perceptions of their own ability in mathematics can have a significant impact on their future engagement and success. When teachers and parents reinforce the message that maths ability is not fixed but can grow with effort, students are more likely to persevere and achieve."
World Maths Day 2025: Encouraging a 'Maths for All' Mindset
On March 26, 2025, schools across Australia will join millions of students worldwide in celebrating World Maths Day, an event designed to make maths fun, engaging, and accessible. Hosted by online maths program, Mathletics, the global competition features 20, 60 second friendly maths challenges that encourage students of all levels to participate and build confidence in their maths skills.
World Maths Day has seen more than 10 million students from over 160 countries take part, creating a global movement aimed at transforming attitudes toward mathematics. The event is built on the idea that everyone can succeed in maths with the right mindset, opportunities, and encouragement.
Lisa Rodgers from 3P Learning creators of Mathletics said: "Fostering a positive approach to mathematics from an early age is key to long-term confidence and achievement and World Maths Day provides schools with the tools and inspiration to embed a 'maths is for everyone' culture."
Professor Attard underscores the significance of initiatives like World Maths Day:
"We know that confidence in maths is a major factor in long-term success. Studies indicate that many students, particularly as they get older, begin to doubt their ability, even when they have the potential to excel. This is why it's critical to foster a positive, inclusive approach to maths - one that helps every child see themselves as capable and competent."
World Maths Day 2025 will include a series of competitive maths challenges. The event not only helps students strengthen their abilities but also promotes the idea that maths can be enjoyable and rewarding.
Go to worldmathsday.com f
