Live Borders has launched an exciting lineup of free events in Hawick to mark Maths Week Scotland from September 22 to 28. Families can dive into the Wild Maths theme through hands on activities that blend math with nature and creativity at local museums and libraries.
Exploring the Wild Maths Theme in Hawick
Maths Week Scotland brings a fresh focus each year to make math fun and relevant for everyone. This time the theme is Wild Maths which highlights how numbers shapes and patterns appear in the natural world and daily adventures. In Hawick organizers aim to draw in families by tying math to outdoor play and heritage spots.
Live Borders teams up with local partners to host these sessions. The goal is to spark curiosity in kids while helping parents see math beyond the classroom. Events take place at Hawick Museum Hawick Library and Borders Textile Towerhouse creating a community wide celebration.
Experts note that early exposure to math through play boosts confidence and skills. With Scotland pushing for better STEM education these gatherings fit right into national efforts to build a math positive nation.
Key Events Schedule for the Week
Families have plenty of options during the week with drop in and booked sessions. Here is a quick look at the main happenings to help plan your visit.
| Date | Event | Location | Time | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 23 | Wild Maths LEGO Session | Hawick Library | 3:45pm-5:45pm | For ages 7+ build nature models |
| Sept 26 | ASN Family Fun Session | Hawick Museum | 11am-12:30pm | Tailored for additional needs |
| Sept 27 | Wild Maths Family Fun Day | Hawick Museum & Park | 11am-3pm | Clay play den building sundials |
Pre booking is advised for some events to ensure spots especially the ASN session. All activities stay free to encourage wide participation.
Hands On Activities That Engage Everyone
The programme shines with creative ways to learn math. At the LEGO session kids work with enthusiast Alistair Jelks to craft builds inspired by nature. They explore concepts like symmetry and counting while having fun with bricks.
Over at Borders Textile Towerhouse self led trails run daily from 10am to 4pm. Visitors discover geometry in textiles through puzzles and patterns drawn from local heritage. These drop in options make it easy for spontaneous visits.
On the Family Fun Day expect a mix of workshops from partners like Instinctively Wild CIC. Kids can try becoming human sundials to grasp time and angles or build dens to understand space. Free putting at the Pavilion Cafe adds a lighthearted touch for all ages.
Launching Wild Maths Explorer Backpacks
A highlight is the debut of Wild Maths Explorer Backpacks at the museum. These packs let children explore Wilton Lodge Park and the museum site in interactive ways. Each includes an activity booklet to guide discoveries in nature.
Young explorers earn a badge upon completion turning learning into a rewarding quest. Designed for family use the backpacks connect math to real world spots like park trails and exhibits. They remain available post launch for ongoing fun.
This initiative builds on successful past programs by Live Borders. It encourages repeat visits and deeper engagement with local history and environment.
Building Community Through Math Fun
Emily Moir education officer at Live Borders shares her excitement. She says the events offer a chance to get hands on and curious about math in unexpected places like clay modeling or nature patterns. The free access removes barriers letting more families join in.
These gatherings also support inclusive education. The ASN session provides a safe space for children with additional needs to play and learn at their pace. Overall the week fosters community ties while addressing calls for more engaging math resources in Scotland.
With over 75 events nationwide this years Maths Week stands as a major push for positive math experiences.1
- Benefits of attending: Boosts kids math skills through play.
- Ties to trends: Aligns with rising interest in outdoor learning post pandemic.
- Future impact: May inspire school programs and family traditions.
As math literacy gains focus these events remind us that learning can be joyful and accessible.
Share your thoughts on these Wild Maths adventures in the comments below and spread the word to friends for a math filled week.
