Notice
Spot what matters
Pull useful information from a problem and ignore what does not help.
Problem solving at SJWMS
SJWMSMATHS
UKMTUnited KingdomMathematics Trust
Think beyond
the textbook.
Challenges for students who enjoy noticing patterns, testing ideas and finding an unexpected route.
Explore the challenge↓Why UKMT?
The question looks unfamiliar.
That is the point.
UKMT problems reward careful thinking rather than remembering a method. You are not expected to finish everything.
Explore
Try another route
Draw, list, simplify or work backwards when the first idea does not work.
Reason
Make the idea convincing
Check that your answer fits the conditions and that your argument really works.
700,000+
young people take part in UKMT competitions each year.
Find your challenge
Three starting points.
One way of thinking.
Confirmed dates · 2026–27
Three dates to know.
Challenge entries are organised through school. Speak to your maths teacher if you would like to take part.
- Senior Mathematical ChallengeWednesday · Years 12 and 1301
- Intermediate Mathematical ChallengeWednesday · Years 9, 10 and 1102
- Junior Mathematical ChallengeWednesday · Years 7 and 803
Qualifying rounds Intermediate Kangaroos and Olympiads take place on 18 March 2027. Junior follow-on rounds take place on 15 June 2027.
Full UKMT calendar ↗Prepare
Get used to being stuck.
The best preparation is to try a problem, pause, and then compare another approach.