Calculating Success: The Mathematics Department at PASCAL Private Secondary School Lefkosia, 2024–2025

At PASCAL Private Secondary School Lefkosia, Mathematics is more than equations—it’s exploration, innovation, and intellectual resilience. During the 2024–2025 academic year, the Mathematics Department engaged pupils in a wide array of interactive, competitive, and environmentally conscious activities that celebrated the beauty and relevance of maths in everyday life.

Pi Day: 3.14 Reasons to Celebrate

On March 14th, 2025, pupils and teachers came together to mark National Pi Day, commemorating the mathematical constant π (pi), the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. Known for its infinite digits, pi has fascinated mathematicians for thousands of years.

During second break, pupils were challenged to recite as many digits of π as possible—with those remembering more than five digits rewarded with chocolate treats. This fun activity encouraged mental recall, numerical appreciation, and a sense of community around a shared mathematical milestone.

Eco Week: Recycling Through Origami (18–22 March)

In celebration of Eco Week, the Mathematics Department introduced a creative recycling initiative. Pupils were given simple origami tutorials and encouraged to use pages from old magazines or used paper to create intricate folded designs.

This initiative raised awareness about sustainability and resourcefulness, blending mathematical precision with environmental responsibility.

Environmental Action Plan: The Paper Treadmill

In a further effort to promote eco-conscious behaviour, the Department launched the “Paper Treadmill”—a unique challenge designed to demonstrate the reuse of materials.

Using only discarded paper sheets, pupils built a treadmill-style path and raced to complete it. The event was equal parts maths, physics, and fun, highlighting how simple concepts can be used creatively to encourage sustainable practices.

External Competitions: Pushing Mathematical Boundaries

The Department proudly supported pupils in a wide range of local and national Mathematics competitions, encouraging them to test their skills beyond the classroom:

• Iacovos Patatsos Regional Competition

• • Taisiya Chernova – Honourable Mention (Έπαινος)

• • Lev Martyushev – Honourable Mention (Έπαινος)

• Kangourou Mathematics Competition
  A popular international maths challenge promoting critical thinking and problem-solving through engaging multiple-choice questions.

• Mathematics Olympiad
  A prestigious national competition where pupils solved complex mathematical problems under time constraints.

• Mathematics Relay Competition
  A team-based challenge combining speed, logic, and collaboration—proving that maths is also a team sport.

Top Achievement: Pancyprian Distinction

A standout moment of the year came with Taisiya Chernova (6IB) earning 2nd place in the Pancyprian Mathematics Competition—an exceptional accomplishment that reflects both her dedication and the department’s commitment to nurturing mathematical excellence.

Looking Ahead

This academic year has demonstrated that the Mathematics Department is not only about numbers—it is about engaging minds, fostering curiosity, and applying logic to real-world challenges. From celebrating the elegance of pi to championing sustainability and achieving national recognition, our pupils have shown that success is best measured by passion, perseverance, and participation.