Love maths and want to make use of it? A fantastic idea: it'll both be a lot of fun, and possibly even very lucrative indeed!

So, what can you do with maths?

Well almost anything.....

Maths is the most important component of many STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) and Finance careers.  With Maths, the career options are almost endless.

Maths Careers is a great place to find out just some of the exciting things you can get into. This American website has even more ideas. And did you hear what Tyler Jarvis said in the video? "A recent study of the 15 most lucrative careers showed that they had one thing in common: they all needed a good understanding of mathematics." Remember - you read it here first!

Work experience opportunities

Your choice of career is one of the most important decisions you will make.  Have you seen what Apple founder Steve Job's had to say about discovering what you are passionate about ?

So, it's a great idea to try to get some work experience if you can:
  • It'll show you how exciting jobs involving maths can be!
  • It might help you understand what kind of things you would like (and wouldn't like!) to do in a job
  • It could help you decide which degree to study
  • It will give you some great experience and contacts on your CV when you start to look for your first job

The great news is that the UK has identified that we need more of our best and brightest people working in STEM careers - and particular more women. 
That means that there are masses of resources to help you like these:


EDT is the largest provider of STEM enrichment activities in the UK. They have work related learning opportunities for 11-21 year olds including Headstart experience for Yr12.
You can find out more: here



General STEM work experience

Maths & Science work experience

Banking, Finance & Consulting work experience

Saachi Sen on Engineering

Work experience - how and when?

There are basically two ways to get work experience opportunities:
  1. Through a personal introduction: it's surprising how many people will help you with work experience opportunities if you only ask.  You'll need to be clear about what kind of job you would like to experience.  Don't forget Maths Careers for ideas. Then ask your parents and friends if they know anyone who works in that area for you to contact.
  2. On a formal work experience programme: lots of organisations and companies run formal work experience programmes for young people.  There's a list of companies who employ mathematicians here so you can do your own research. Some of the more interesting work experience opportunities are highlighted at the bottom of the page

Remember though that these are very competitive and have formal application deadlines, generally in the March before the programme starts.  You'll need to apply early!

Most (but not all!) work experience is available for anyone in Years 10,11 & 12. 

This guide to STEM work placements also identifies some good links that you might want to research.

Formal work experience programmes are generally in the summer holiday and can last up to a week.  They are not all in London either, so you'll need to check with your parents before you apply. 

And finally, ladies... 

Some reflections on gender issues in mathematics, STEM and the workplace (with by an excellent cartoon from xkcd).



Computing resources

Engineering work experience

Want to do something amazing?

Taster Days

Taster days are great to do in Year 11 or Year 12. They can give you some idea what you want to study further, give you personal statement material, and often there are university tutors who can give you handy hints. They also offer you a free lunch. Yay! Find the full range of stuff in london here. You can also do some outside of london, which you can find here.