APSMO MATHS OLYMPIAD AND ICAS

The Australasian Problem Solving Mathematical Olympiads (APSMO) provide opportunities for students to engage in creative problem solving experiences whilst developing logical and reasoning skills as well as how to be resourceful when solving more complex problems. The programs are unique in that they focus on students' ability to solve mathematical problems in a creative manner - as opposed to simply reaching a solution using a prescribed method. 

Creative problem solving focuses on the real-world application of maths, encouraging children to think for themselves and explore a range of problem-solving options. By encouraging our students to think through a problem or challenge in a holistic manner, we are helping them to reach their full potential in relation to mathematical problem solving and, in essence, to make sense of mathematics.

The Maths Olympiad competitions main aim is to:

• Introduce students to important mathematical concepts
• Teach major strategies and develop flexibility for problem solving
• Foster creativity and ingenuity and strengthen intuition
• Stimulate enthusiasm and enjoyment of mathematics
• Provide for the satisfaction, joy and thrill of meeting challenges

Each year 30 students are selected from Year 5 and 6 to participate in 5 monthly Maths Olympiad contests.  I would like to congratulate all of our participants some challenges were extremely difficult. I would like to acknowledge the following students who all finished in the top 50% in Australia: Chazz Van Veen, Keanu Smeich, Hriday Thakrani, Erin Little and Milly McGrath.

 I look forward to next year's challenges.

This week we also received the rest of our ICAS results.  We congratulate all students who participated in the following assessments and in particular would like to mention:-

Jeannine Ucdereli
Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching