M3 Challenge weekend

Four intrepid students dared to undertake this year's MathWorks Math Modelling Challenge Weekend - a 14 hour international Maths competition open to Sixth Form students.  Jess, Zephan, Theo and Danae used Maths and data to solve open-ended and timely real-world problems during a 14-hour continuous work time slot (breaks are recommended!) and they had no idea what the challenge was about until the clock started.  Teams can use computers, books, reference works and internet sources to help them complete the challenge, but they cannot discuss the problem, nor seek help via any means or method from a coach or anyone other than their teammates.

Huge thanks to Mrs Wharton who volunteered to host the epic Maths event and for keeping the team well-stocked with cups of tea, snacks and meals throughout the day.  The team started at 8am on Sunday morning and submitted their report just before 10pm.  There are substantial awards for honourable mentions, semi-finalists, finalists and winners ranging from $1,000 to $20,000, plus travel and expenses to the Final Event in New York at the end of April.