Aston University Mathematics School

Aston University Mathematics School (AUMS), the West Midlands’ only University Mathematics School, will open in September 2025. As one of only nine such selective, specialist sixth form colleges in the UK, AUMS aims to transform the lives of the most able young mathematicians and scientists across the region.

Fully embedded within the Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust, AUMS builds on the strong pedagogical foundations and leadership of the highly successful Aston University Engineering Academy (AUEA).

AUMS will prepare students for prestigious destinations, including leading universities, competitive degree apprenticeships, and influential careers in STEM. Students will benefit from an enriched academic environment designed to stretch and challenge the brightest minds in the region.

What is a University Mathematics School?

University Mathematics Schools are selective state schools for 16–19-year-olds, established in partnership with leading universities. They offer an advanced and rigorous curriculum, immersing students in mathematics and related disciplines while fostering a vibrant community of exceptional learners. These schools are centres of academic excellence and play a critical role in enhancing social mobility by enabling students from underrepresented backgrounds to access top-tier STEM degrees and careers.

Curriculum at AUMS

All students at AUMS will study A-level Mathematics and A-level Further Mathematics, a third A-level in Physics or Computer Science, and a fourth A-level in the remaining subject not chosen as the third, or alternatively in Chemistry, Economics, or Biology, to be taught at our partner school within our multi-academy trust, Aston University Engineering Academy.

In addition to the A-level curriculum, AUMS provides bespoke programmes designed to enrich learning and support personal growth:

• Aston Destinations: A tailored careers programme providing personalised mentorship, career workshops, and exclusive networking opportunities. This equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to progress to top universities, degree apprenticeships, or professional careers.
• Aston Project Certificate: Students will undertake group projects with academics from Aston University and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), fostering teamwork, independent research, and problem-solving skills.
• Problem Solving: Focused on advanced techniques in critical thinking, logic, and creativity, this programme ensures students are equipped for mathematical and scientific challenges.
• Personal Development: A programme designed to build students’ character, leadership, and resilience, while supporting their mental health and wellbeing.

Entry requirements

AUMS’s admission process is rigorous, ensuring students are prepared for the challenges of the curriculum. As well as requiring strong performance in both an aptitude test and a mathematics-focused interview, we expect all students starting at AUMS to have a minimum of:

• Grade 8 in GCSE Mathematics
• Grade 7 in GCSE Physics or 7-7 in GCSE Combined Science
• Grade 5 in GCSE English Language

Location and facilities

AUMS is based at 2 Lister Street, on the edge of Aston University’s campus in Birmingham’s Innovation Quarter. The school is undergoing a £5 million refurbishment to create a state-of-the-art mathematics and technology centre of excellence. Students will also benefit from access to Aston University’s world-class facilities.

AUMS’s central location provides excellent transport links, being within walking distance of Moor Street, Snow Hill, and New Street train stations.

Beyond the classroom: outreach

AUMS’s mission extends beyond its own students. Through extensive outreach work with secondary schools, teachers, and pupils, AUMS will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of mathematics education across the West Midlands. This includes providing professional development opportunities for teachers, visiting secondary schools to talk about pathways in mathematics, and hosting events that inspire young people to explore the possibilities within mathematics and STEM subjects. By building partnerships in our community, AUMS aims to raise aspirations and contribute to bridging educational inequalities across the region.

Join our team

Joining AUMS means becoming part of a ground-breaking institution that combines academic excellence with an unwavering commitment to pastoral care. We are a school where innovation, ambition, and collaboration are at the heart of everything we do.

Explore our opportunities and join us in shaping the future of mathematics and science education in the West Midlands.