Delivered through a partnership between Scottish Rugby, Edinburgh Rugby and Edinburgh Building Society, the event provided young people with the opportunity to explore how mathematics is used in real-life situations while experiencing one of Scotland’s most iconic sporting venues.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The day began with a behind-the-scenes tour of Murrayfield Stadium, with pupils visiting a range of different areas throughout the venue. However, this was no ordinary stadium tour.

At each stage of the visit, learners were challenged to apply their numeracy and problem-solving skills to real-world scenarios linked to the rugby environment. Activities included:

• Calculating size, spacing and area within the changing rooms.
• Managing budgets and costs within the stadium gift shop.
• Calculating the cost of kitting out an entire rugby team.
• Analysing game-play statistics and performance data.
• Applying mathematical thinking to practical workplace scenarios.

The interactive format helped pupils see how mathematics is used in business, sport and everyday decision-making, bringing classroom learning to life in an engaging and memorable way.

Combining Numeracy and Physical Activity

Following the maths challenges, pupils had the opportunity to take part in rugby activities delivered by professionals, allowing them to experience the sport first-hand while continuing to build teamwork, communication and leadership skills.

The combination of practical learning and physical activity created an exciting and engaging environment, helping pupils understand how skills developed in school can be applied across a range of careers and industries.

The event also demonstrated the importance of numeracy within sectors such as sport, business, finance, events management and performance analysis, broadening young people’s awareness of future career opportunities.

Strong Employer and Partner Engagement

The programme was fully funded by Scottish Rugby, Edinburgh Rugby and Edinburgh Building Society, who also supported travel costs for staff and pupils attending the event.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to helping young people understand the value of numeracy, build confidence in their abilities and engage with learning in innovative ways.

By working directly with schools, employers and industry partners can help learners make meaningful connections between education and the world of work while inspiring future aspirations.

Feedback from Staff and Pupils

Feedback following the event was overwhelmingly positive, with both staff and pupils highlighting the impact of the experience.

One member of staff commented:

“It was very successful. We would love to be able to make this an annual event to engage with our pupils and recognise their achievements, as this was a perfect way to do that.”

The experience also had a wider impact beyond the classroom, with staff reporting increased interest in rugby following the visit.

“This has even inspired young people to take up rugby, with some enquiring about local rugby clubs.”

The combination of recognition, challenge and fun helped create a memorable experience that celebrated pupil achievement while encouraging them to continue engaging with both maths and physical activity.

Impact and Outcomes

The Tackle Maths event delivered a range of positive outcomes for participating pupils, including:

• Increased engagement with numeracy through real-world applications.
• Improved problem-solving and analytical thinking skills.
• Greater understanding of how maths is used across different industries.
• Enhanced confidence in applying learning outside the classroom.
• Development of teamwork and communication skills.
• Increased awareness of opportunities within the sport and leisure sector.

By combining education, employer engagement and sport, the programme demonstrated how creative partnerships can inspire young people and show the relevance of classroom learning in exciting and meaningful ways.

The success of the event highlights the value of experiential learning opportunities that allow pupils to develop skills, explore future pathways and see first-hand how their achievements can open doors to new opportunities.