Top Mathematician opens ‘inspiring’ new science block

IT’S not every day that a world renowned Mathematician visits your school. Yesterday, Marcus du Sautoy, OBE, Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science and Professor of Mathematics at the University of Oxford came to Lord Williams’s School in Thame, to open the new Clark Building.

Marcus du Sautoy with Jamie Lyon

A school spokesperson said: “Marcus spent the day meeting staff and students and gave a wonderful talk to Year 11 students on the wonders of Mathematics and the potential joys and mysteries of studying the subject. A special certificate was presented to Jamie Lyon who won a competition to design a mural for the floor in the entrance hall to the new building. Marcus has very interesting views on the links between Mathematics and the Creative Arts collaborating with many different artists and organisations.

“In 2014 he worked with the Swedish Radio Orchestra exploring the connections between Mathematics and Music. He has also presented three series of the School of Hard Sums on the Dave TV station with comedian Dara O’ Briain. He was the mathematical adviser for the National Theatre’s production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.

“The new building is named in recognition of the dedicated service of one of our present governors, Anne Clark, who has supported the school as a parent and governor for over 40 years.”

David Wybron, the Headteacher of Lord Williams’s school, commented: “This building will surely inspire present and future generations of staff and students. There is a very tangible feeling of space and light in the building and it feels like an exciting place for learning to take place.”

The building was the result of a successful bid to the Education Funding Agency.