Sumdog, the evidence-based maths fluency platform used by schools across Wales, recently visited a number of primary schools in Swansea to celebrate pupils’ success in their recent maths contest and to hear first-hand about their experiences taking part.
As part of the celebrations, the Sumdog team visited St Thomas Primary Community School to award Y5 James’ class with a trophy for their achievement in the Welsh contest. During the visit, the team spent time speaking with pupils about the contest, what they enjoyed most, and how they found competing alongside other schools across Wales.
The visit offered a chance to acknowledge the class’s dedication and enthusiasm for maths, while celebrating their strong engagement and upbeat approach throughout the contest. Pupils spoke about the thrill of earning points, watching their progress climb the leaderboards and pushing themselves to achieve higher scores.
The Sumdog team also visited Penllergaer Primary School, spending time with both Y5/Y6 classes, who finished in the top 20 classes on the Swansea contest leaderboard. During classroom visits, pupils spoke about what motivated them to take part, how friendly competition helped keep them engaged, and why they enjoyed practising maths through Sumdog’s interactive games.
Across both schools, Sumdog staff met with pupils and teachers to discuss how the platform is used in the classroom, gather feedback on the contest experience, and explore how fun, personalised practice can support confidence and progress in maths.
“The Sumdog team got to meet many schools that entered the contest over the course of the Swansea road trip. We met with the winning class and some classes where the scores were excellent. All the schools we visited didn’t know they were getting a Sumdog visit and seeing Sumdog himself make an appearance in assembly created fantastic excitement for pupils. We handed out trophies, medals and certificates for classes that entered as well as individual pupils that did exceptionally well.
It was great to see how popular Sumdog is in Swansea and we can’t wait for the next contest and visit.” Aileen Ellmers, Education Sales Manager.
The Swansea school visits were part of Sumdog’s wider mission to support education across Wales, giving pupils the chance to grow their confidence in maths and spelling through engaging, personalised and motivating learning activities.
“We are absolutely loving Sumdog and the contests have been a particular highlight,” said Jemma Kelleher, Deputy Headteacher from Penllergaer Primary School. “Our pupils were incredibly motivated, seeing other Swansea primary schools competing, and were eager to keep playing to improve their scores”
Children at Penllergaer Primary School showing Moe, Sumdog’s Account Manager, why they enjoy practising maths on Sumdog.
Notes to editors:
- Sumdog was founded in Edinburgh and has supported Scottish schools for over 15 years
- Sumdog helps all learners aged 5-14 make progress through personalised maths and spelling practice that boosts engagement and builds fluency